World Cancer Day: Why the early symptom of 'cachexia' is often misconstrued by patients

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On World Cancer Day, information on the importance of early screenings, diagnosis and alertness are aplenty, but did you know that there is an early symptom of cancer that patients often misconstrue? At an age when everyone is keen to shed weight, the symptom is often interpreted as a reason to be happy or doing 'something right,' especially by youngsters. However, it is important to note that 'unexplained weight loss ' can have a connection to cancer. When you lose a significant amount of weight, without any reason, like regular workout routines or diet over a short period of time, note that it should be a warning signal.
This is because, in many cancer patients, the disease increases the body's energy while decreasing the appetite. This condition, also known as cachexia,' can result in a loss of muscle and fat and result in fatigue and weakness. Lung cancer, prostate cancer, gastroesophageal cancer, colorectal cancer, ovarian cancer, non-Hodgkin lymphoma and pancreatic cancer are a few of the cancer types that can cause unexplained weight loss, according to experts.
How to be alert?
According to Cancer Research UK, the world's largest independent cancer research charity, you can weigh yourself once every week at the same time and wear the same outfits to see whether there is any fluctuation. You should also see how tight or loose the clothes are, whether you have rings or watches on the scale. If you are also experiencing fatigue, dizziness and more alongside the weight loss, talk to your doctor or go in for a screening. The medical team can advise you on handling your body through the right water and other liquids intake, eating the right amount of food and resting well. Apparently, with many people who have breast and ovarian cancers, weight gain can happen through treatment while getting hormone therapy or chemotherapy.