Are Four Simple Questions Able to Predict Weight Loss in Outpatients With Metastatic Cancer? A Prospective Cohort Study Assessing the Simplified Nutritional Appetite Questionnaire.

ABSTRACTBackground: Severe weight loss is directly responsible for up to one-fifth of all cancer deaths and has a major impact on quality of life. The simplified nutritional appetite questionnaire (SNAQ) was validated to predict weight loss within 6 mo in community-dwelling adults and nursing home residents. Methods: We prospectively assessed the SNAQ in 133 palliative cancer outpatients. The SNAQ predictions were validated after 3 and 6 mo with the observed weight change. In addition, the treating oncologists gave their predictions concerning future weight loss according to their clinical judgment. Results: A significant weight loss of 5% of the original body weight within 6 mo occurred in 20 (24%) of the 133 patients. The SNAQ predicted weight loss with a sensitivity of 0.38 and a specificity of 0.66 (P-value 0.81). The treating oncologists predicted weight loss with a sensitivity of 0.67 and a specificity of 0.7 (P-value 0.002). Conclusion: The SNAQ does not represent a useful tool to predict impending...