For many people with cancer, changes in appetite and weight can be some of the most distressing parts of the journey. When weight loss happens unintentionally and doesn’t improve with eating more, it may be part of a condition called anorexia–cachexia syndrome (ACS).
At Atrium Health Levine Cancer, we recognize that ACS affects more than the body; it impacts strength, energy, emotional well being, and quality of life. Understanding this condition can help patients and families know the support and care that can make a difference.
What Is Anorexia–Cachexia Syndrome?
Anorexia–cachexia syndrome is a complex condition seen in many people with cancer. It is marked by:
- Loss of appetite
- Unplanned weight loss
- Loss of muscle and strength
Unlike typical weight loss, ACS is driven by changes in how the body uses energy, along with inflammation caused by cancer and its treatments. This means that simply eating more or drinking nutritional supplements may not fully reverse the weight or muscle loss.
Why This Matters for Patients with Cancer
ACS is more than a number on the scale. Research shows it is linked to:
- Increased fatigue and weakness
- More difficulty tolerating cancer treatments
- Lower quality of life
- Emotional distress for both patients and caregivers
Weight loss and muscle loss can make everyday activities harder, reduce independence, and affect how patients feel physically and emotionally.
Top Things to Know About ACS
- It’s not caused by “not trying hard enough to eat.”
ACS is driven by changes in metabolism and inflammation. Loss of appetite and muscle happens even when patients want to eat. - Symptoms can make eating even harder.
Pain, nausea, constipation, early fullness, taste changes, and low mood can all reduce food intake. These are known as nutrition impact symptoms and are often treatable. - Muscle loss matters as much as weight loss.
Loss of muscle can affect strength, balance, and the ability to stay active, making recovery and daily life more challenging. - One size fits all solutions don’t work.
Treating appetite alone or focusing only on calories may help one symptom, but it usually isn’t enough to address the full impact of ACS.
How Atrium Health Supports Patients With ACS
At Atrium Health, care for anorexia–cachexia syndrome is team based and personalized. Managing this condition often requires support from multiple experts working together.
Patients may benefit from:
- Dietitians who help optimize protein and calorie intake and address eating challenges.
- Cancer specialists and palliative care teams manage symptoms like pain, nausea, and early fullness.
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy experts who support safe movement and strength.
- Behavioral health specialists help patients and families cope with the emotional stress of appetite and weight changes.
This coordinated approach featured in recent research by our cancer team shows that multimodal care—addressing nutrition, physical activity, symptoms, and emotional health together—offers the greatest potential benefit for people with ACS. In addition to this publication, Atrium Health Levine Cancer is committed to advancing research that enhances comprehension of cachexia, including investigations into its biological mechanisms. Researchers are also evaluating treatment approaches intended to improve strength, functional capacity, and overall quality of life.
“Basic science research helps us understand the drivers of cancer cachexia, and multidisciplinary clinical care helps us turn that knowledge into practical support for patients and families. Bringing those efforts together is essential to improving outcomes and quality of life,” says Brandon Vanderveen, Ph.D., assistant professor of cancer biology at Wake Forest University School of Medicine.
When to Speak Up
If you or a loved one with cancer notices:
- Ongoing loss of appetite
- Unintentional weight loss
- Increasing weakness or fatigue
- Stress or conflict around eating
Talk with your care team. Early attention to these concerns may help slow weight loss, improve comfort, and support quality of life. Learn more about cancer support services at Atrium Health.
If you are interested learning about research opportunities related to anorexia–cachexia syndrome, visit our Be Involved website to find the most up-to-date information about current studies and active clinical trials at Atrium Health.
