The Role of Nurses in Multidisciplinary Cancer Cachexia Care Teams

Abstract

Cancer cachexia is a complex metabolic syndrome characterized by involuntary weight loss, muscle wasting, and systemic inflammation, affecting a significant proportion of cancer patients and contributing to increased morbidity and mortality. The etiology of cancer cachexia is multifactorial, involving tumor-host interactions, abnormal metabolic processes, and reduced food intake. Diagnosis and classification of cancer cachexia have been standardized by international consensus, with distinct stages identified as precachexia, cachexia, and refractory cachexia. A multidisciplinary approach is essential for the effective management of cancer cachexia, encompassing nutritional, metabolic, symptomatic, and psychosocial dimensions. Nurses play a pivotal role within the multidisciplinary team, contributing to the diagnosis, evaluation, and management of cancer cachexia through nutritional assessment, symptom control, and patient education. Multimodal interventions, including pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic strategies, are recommended for the treatment of cancer cachexia. Pharmacologic interventions target systemic inflammation, muscle wasting, and appetite stimulation, while nonpharmacologic approaches focus on nutritional support, physical exercise, and symptom management. Nurses are integral to the delivery of these interventions, providing individualized care, psychosocial support, and care coordination. However, deficits in nursing knowledge, skills, and confidence in managing cancer cachexia highlight the need for targeted education and training. Future research should focus on developing robust clinical evidence to guide decision-making and optimize the role of nurses in the multidisciplinary management of cancer cachexia.