Unexpected Weight Loss and Cancer: Guidelines and Recommendations
Author Information
Author(s): Martinez-Gutierrez Javiera, De Mendonca Lucas, Ly Philip, Lee Alex, Hunter Barbara, Manski-Nankervis Jo-Anne, Chima Sophie, Daly Deborah, Fishman George, Lim Fong Seng, Wang Benny, Nelson Craig, Nicholson Brian, Emery Jon
Primary Institution: The University of Melbourne
Hypothesis
What is the association between unexpected weight loss and cancer diagnosis in primary care?
Conclusion
The review provides strong evidence that unexpected weight loss is associated with undiagnosed cancer and informs recommendations for its assessment in primary care.
Supporting Evidence
- Unexpected weight loss is a common symptom linked to undiagnosed cancer.
- 92% of studies reviewed provided strong evidence of the association between unexpected weight loss and cancer.
- Commonly recommended tests include C-reactive protein and complete blood count.
- Patients with unexpected weight loss are 1.6 to 12.5 times more likely to have cancer.
Takeaway
If someone loses weight unexpectedly, it could be a sign of cancer, and doctors should check for it.
Methodology
A systematic search and narrative review of studies from 2012 to 2023 were conducted across four databases.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the exclusion of non-peer-reviewed studies and guidelines not published academically.
Limitations
The review focused on studies from high-income countries and was limited to English-language publications.
Participant Demographics
Participants aged 18-100 years, with a median age of 60 years or older; 60% were women.
Statistical Information
P-Value
3%
Confidence Interval
0.73–0.79
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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