Appetite and appetite stimulants

Abstract

Poor appetite is a common symptom among cancer patients. It can lead to inadequate food intake, weight loss, physical debilitation and reduced tolerance to anti-neoplastic treatment. Although cancer-induced anorexia is not fully understood, there are some theories relating to its development. Interventions may be aimed at improving nutritional intake to prevent excessive weight loss when poor appetite exists, or it may concentrate on improving appetite by pharmacological means. Appetite should be considered alongside other aspects of symptom control and tackled aggressively when it is contributing to a poor quality of life.

What areas of cancer care do Norwegian nurses experience as problems?

“…The second most common problem experienced by the Norwegian nurses was nutrition. Poor appetite and inadequate food intake is also a common problem in cancer patients (Shaw 1993). Symptoms such as nausea/vomiting and fatigue are also described in the literature as frequent problems in clinical practice.…”

Alcohol – friend or foe?

“…Weight loss in cancer patients is associated with an increased risk of associated morbidity and many patients report some degree of anorexia (MacDonald et al , 2003). There are no studies demonstrating that alcohol simulates appetite in terminally ill cancer patients or that it prevents weight loss, but alcohol does contribute to energy intake and it may have social and psychological benefits (Shaw, 1993). Drinking an alcoholic beverage may provide a more relaxed and convivial atmosphere, which may increase food intake.…”