Which statement correctly identifies validated indicators of nutritional status among adults with cancer?

Which statement correctly identifies validated indicators of nutritional status among adults with cancer?

• A. A Unintentional Weight Change
• B. B Decreased appetite/intake
• C. C Both A and B
• D. D None

Answer: (C)

In adults with cancer, validated indicators of nutritional status include changes in body weight and appetite/food intake because these reflect energy balance and actual intake, both of which influence risk for malnutrition and treatment tolerance. Unintentional weight change signals depletion of body stores and is closely linked to poorer outcomes, while decreased appetite or intake directly reduces energy and protein consumption, increasing malnutrition risk. These two factors are consistently used in validated screening and assessment tools (such as PG-SGA and similar instruments) to identify those who need nutrition intervention. Therefore, recognizing both unintentional weight change and decreased appetite/intake as indicators provides the most accurate assessment of nutritional status in this population.

In adults with cancer, validated indicators of nutritional status include changes in body weight and appetite/food intake because these reflect energy balance and actual intake, both of which influence risk for malnutrition and treatment tolerance. Unintentional weight change signals depletion of body stores and is closely linked to poorer outcomes, while decreased appetite or intake directly reduces energy and protein consumption, increasing malnutrition risk. These two factors are consistently used in validated screening and assessment tools (such as PG-SGA and similar instruments) to identify those who need nutrition intervention. Therefore, recognizing both unintentional weight change and decreased appetite/intake as indicators provides the most accurate assessment of nutritional status in this population.