Screening for Anorexia and Weight Loss Reading

Cachexia: the hidden illness driving loved ones apart

The article delves into the often overlooked aspect of dying – cachexia, a condition affecting up to four in five people with advanced cancer. It leads to the wasting away of muscle tissue due to the body’s inability to metabolize food properly. Despite its prevalence, cachexia is relatively unknown, causing avoidable suffering for both the terminally ill and their loved ones. The absence of hunger and the feeling of nausea make it difficult for patients to eat, leading to misunderstandings and emotional strain among caregivers. Understanding cachexia and its implications could lead to more compassionate end-of-life care. However, the lack of focus on palliative care in healthcare education and research exacerbates the problem, highlighting the need for better preparation among healthcare professionals to address conditions like cachexia effectively.

http://theconversation.com/cachexia-the-hidden-illness-driving-loved-ones-apart-37995