Cancer Cachexia & Supportive Oncology

Cancer cachexia is a complex condition that causes unintentional weight loss, muscle wasting, and decreased strength, often impacting energy, treatment tolerance, and quality of life. At The Laurel Highlands Center in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, physicians Courtney Floyd, MD, and Ryan Floyd, MD, offer a Cancer Cachexia &Supportive Oncology Clinic focused on early identification and comprehensive, medically guided care. By combining body composition analysis, nutritional support, and metabolic evaluation, they help preserve muscle, improve strength, and support overall well-being. Call the office or book your appointment online today to learn more.

What is cancer cachexia?

Cancer cachexia is a condition characterized by ongoing muscle loss, with or without fat loss, that cannot be fully reversed by standard nutrition alone. It commonly occurs in individuals with cancer and is driven by complex changes in metabolism and inflammation within the body.

Unlike typical weight loss, cachexia specifically affects muscle mass and strength, which can significantly impact physical function, energy levels, and recovery.

What causes cancer cachexia?

Cancer cachexia is caused by a combination of factors related to both the cancer itself and the body’s response to it. Chronic inflammation, altered metabolism, and reduced appetite all contribute.

Common contributing factors include:

• Increased inflammatory response from the body
• Changes in how the body processes nutrients and energy
• Reduced appetite or difficulty eating
• Side effects of cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation

These factors can lead to rapid muscle loss, even when calorie intake appears adequate.

How does the Cancer Cachexia Clinic help?

The Cancer Cachexia Clinic provides a comprehensive, supportive approach focused on preserving muscle mass, improving strength, and enhancing quality of life. Care is tailored to each individual and coordinated with your broader medical team when appropriate.

Your care plan may include:

• Body composition analysis to monitor muscle and fat changes
• Nutritional guidance focused on maintaining weight and muscle
• Metabolic and hormone evaluation
• Address nutrition impact symptoms 
• Exercise recommendations to support muscle preservation
• Ongoing monitoring to track progress and adjust care

This multidisciplinary approach helps address both the symptoms and underlying causes of cachexia.

What are the risks of untreated cachexia?

If left unaddressed, cancer cachexia can lead to significant muscle loss, weakness, and decreased ability to tolerate cancer treatments. It may also increase the risk of complications, reduce independence, and impact overall outcomes.

Because cachexia can progress quickly, early intervention is critical to preserving strength and supporting overall health.

How can the Cancer Cachexia Clinic support my long-term health?

While cancer cachexia can be challenging to manage, early and consistent care can help slow its progression and improve quality of life. The goal of the Cancer Cachexia Clinic is to help you maintain strength, energy, and function throughout your treatment and beyond.

With personalized support and ongoing monitoring, you can better manage symptoms, maintain independence, and feel more supported in your care journey. Call The Laurel Highlands Center or book your appointment online today to get started.