2023 World Conference on Lung Cancer (Posters)-P2.23. An Untold Story About Living with Low Muscle Mass and its Impact Throughout Curative Radiotherapy Treatment for Lung Cancer

P2.23. An Untold Story About Living with Low Muscle Mass and its Impact Throughout Curative Radiotherapy Treatment for Lung Cancer - PDF(Abstract)

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This presentation discusses the impact of low muscle mass on individuals undergoing curative radiotherapy treatment for lung cancer. Low muscle mass is found to be associated with a greater risk of mortality in people with lung cancer. The study aimed to understand how low muscle mass affects the ability of patients to cope with treatment, engage in self-care, and receive nutrition and exercise intervention. <br /><br />The study utilized a qualitative approach and conducted semi-structured interviews with thirteen participants who had been diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer or small-cell lung cancer. The participants were treated with curative intent chemo-radiotherapy or radiotherapy and had low muscle mass at the start of treatment or experienced muscle loss during treatment. <br /><br />The results of the study identified three main themes: patient experience, self-management, and the impact and influence of extrinsic factors. Most participants reported a significant impact on their day-to-day functioning, eating, and physical activity. They recognized the importance of nutrition and exercise and engaged in self-initiated or health professional supported strategies to cope with their situation. Participants emphasized the importance of early provision of nutrition and exercise advice, guidance from health professionals, and support from family and friends. <br /><br />The study concludes that people with low muscle mass undergoing curative radiotherapy for lung cancer have diverse experiences and abilities to cope with treatment. The types of support required are individual, indicating the need for personalized identification of needs and subsequent intervention. The study suggests that the impact of low muscle mass and muscle loss, as well as their assessment and treatment, should be further considered in clinical practice. Keywords associated with this study include muscle loss, nutrition, and exercise. This research falls under the track of Multidisciplinary Care: Nursing, Allied Health and Palliative Care.

Asset Subtitle

Nicole Kiss

Meta Tag

Speaker Nicole Kiss

Topic Multidisciplinary Care: Nursing & Allied Health

Keywords

low muscle mass

lung cancer

mortality risk

curative radiotherapy

self-care

nutrition intervention

exercise intervention

qualitative approach

patient experience

muscle loss assessment