Understanding New Cachexia Subtypes Through Observational Epidemiological Research

Summary

The UNCOVER study is a longitudinal observational cohort focused on patients at high risk for cancer cachexia. At Kaiser Permanente Northern California, up to 800 individuals with advanced or unresectable non-small cell lung cancer, pancreatic adenocarcinoma, or colorectal cancer will be enrolled, as these malignancies carry a substantial risk of cancer cachexia, which is characterized by progressive loss of weight, muscle, and adipose tissue, accompanied by functional decline and reduced quality of life. Data collected includes demographic, physiologic, and clinical data, including tumor characteristics and biomarkers of inflammation, hormonal and metabolic status, body composition, physical function, and patient reported outcomes. Investigators will identify patient phenotypes (i.e., subgroups) that may reflect distinct biological or clinical pathways underlying cancer cachexia. By characterizing heterogeneity in cancer cachexia, this study aims to inform the development of improved diagnostic criteria and more targeted therapeutic strategies, ultimately enhancing clinical trial design and supportive care for patients with advanced colorectal, lung, or pancreatic cancer.

Detailed Description

PRIMARY OBJECTIVES: I. To identify multiple distinct diagnostic phenotypes within the syndrome of cancer cachexia as defined by host characteristics (e.g. cachexia symptoms, physical activity, physical function, blood biomarkers, and body composition) at baseline and change in these factors over time in patients with cancer at high risk for cancer cachexia. II. To determine the association of each cancer cachexia phenotype with overall survival. SECONDARY OBJECTIVES: I. To determine the association of each cancer cachexia phenotype with functional decline and treatment intolerance. II. To inform clinical practice guidelines for prompt recognition of patients likely to progress to refractory cachexia, identify early predictors apparent at clinical presentation of each cancer cachexia phenotype defined in the primary objective.

Eligibility Criteria

Interventions