Cachexia by the Numbers

Below is a chart showing the number of persons in the United States with cachexia based on some common diseases.

Note: The focus of the Fortitude study is directed primarily towards patients with lung cancer, although research results will undoubtedly be shared across fields of study.

The numbers are based on generally reported prevalences of disease and literature estimations of unintentional weight loss in these conditions. COPD, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

The values may be too high in the era of the use of highly active antiretroviral therapy; some authors believe that 10% may be more appropriate.

Source: The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition

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