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(Slides)

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A study conducted at Deakin University aimed to explore the experiences of individuals living with low muscle mass or muscle loss during treatment for lung cancer. The study found that 6 in 10 people with lung cancer have low muscle mass prior to starting treatment. A meta-analysis of 15 studies also found that low muscle mass is associated with a 3.13-fold higher mortality rate in people with lung cancer. Despite the prevalence of low muscle mass in this population, there is limited understanding of how it affects individuals undergoing lung cancer treatment.<br /><br />The qualitative study involved 17 participants who had non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) or small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and underwent curative (chemo)radiotherapy. The participants were interviewed and their responses were analyzed thematically.<br /><br />The study revealed three main themes. Firstly, the patient experience varied, but most participants reported a significant impact on their day-to-day functioning, eating, and ability to be physically active. Participants described difficulty swallowing, muscle weakness, and fatigue.<br /><br />Secondly, participants engaged in self-management strategies to cope with their low muscle mass. These strategies included adjusting their diet, engaging in light exercise, and conserving energy.<br /><br />Lastly, participants valued early provision of nutrition and exercise advice, guidance from health professionals, and support from family and friends. They emphasized the need for personalized interventions that consider individual circumstances.<br /><br />In conclusion, individuals with low muscle mass or who experience muscle loss during lung cancer treatment have diverse experiences and coping abilities. The study highlights the importance of personalized support and interventions to address the impact of low muscle mass. Further research and consideration are needed in clinical practice to assess and treat low muscle mass effectively in lung cancer patients.

Asset Subtitle

Nicole Kiss

Meta Tag

Speaker Nicole Kiss

Topic Multidisciplinary Care: Nursing & Allied Health

Keywords

low muscle mass

muscle loss

lung cancer

treatment

mortality rate

qualitative study

chemoradiotherapy

patient experience

self-management strategies

personalized interventions