Body weight is an important and reliable indicator for assessing nutrition status, representing the body's energy and protein reserves, and reflecting changes in nutrition status over time. If recent weight gain is observed, it may indicate an improvement in the patient's condition, with improved appetite, increased food intake, and improved nutrition status. Conversely, if recent weight loss is observed, it may indicate a worsening of the patient's condition, increased energy expenditure, decreased food intake, and prompt medical attention and consultation with a nutritionist.
According to surveys, 30%-80% of cancer patients experience varying degrees of weight loss. Therefore, it is recommended that cancer patients weigh themselves once a week and keep records.
How to weigh yourself correctly?
In the morning, after emptying your bladder and bowels, remove your shoes and clothing and weigh yourself wearing light clothing. Ensure that each weighing is done at the same time and under the same conditions for consistent comparisons of data. If weight loss exceeds 1-2kg within a week, or if there is more than a 5% weight loss within six months, or if the body mass index (BMI) is less than 18.5 kg/m2, it is advisable to promptly seek assessment and intervention from a clinical nutritionist at a specialized hospital.
For more specialized and detailed oncology nutrition guidance, consult with a professional nutritionist specializing in oncology nutrition.
Clinical Nutrition Department
The Clinical Nutrition Department provides intestinal and parenteral nutrition therapy, dietary guidance, and public education for patients, with a dedicated nutrition clinic to meet outpatient needs. The department is staffed with experts with years of clinical nutrition experience, specializing in the treatment of conditions such as perioperative nutrition for cancer patients, nutrition therapy before and after radiotherapy and chemotherapy, nutritional rehabilitation for cancer patients, various nutrient deficiencies, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, obesity, electrolyte disorders, and more.
The service goals of the Clinical Nutrition Department include reducing malnutrition before and after surgery and radiotherapy/chemotherapy, minimizing side effects of radiotherapy/chemotherapy, enhancing patients' immunity, accelerating patient recovery, shortening hospital stays, reducing medical costs, and improving patients' quality of life.