Understanding New Cachexia Subtypes Through Observational Epidemiological Research
The UNCOVER study is a longitudinal observational cohort focused on patients at high risk for cancer cachexia. At Kaiser Permanente Northern California, up to 800 individuals with advanced or unresectable non-small cell lung cancer, pancreatic adenocarcinoma, or colorectal cancer will be enrolled, as these malignancies carry a substantial risk of cancer cachexia, which is characterized by progressive loss of weight, muscle, and adipose tissue, accompanied by functional decline and reduced quality of life. Data collected includes demographic, physiologic, and clinical data, including tumor characteristics and biomarkers of inflammation, hormonal and metabolic status, body composition, physical function, and patient reported outcomes. Investigators will identify patient phenotypes (i.e., subgroups) that may reflect distinct biological or clinical pathways underlying cancer cachexia. By characterizing heterogeneity in cancer cachexia, this study aims to inform the development of improved diagnostic criteria and more targeted therapeutic strategies, ultimately enhancing clinical trial design and supportive care for patients with advanced colorectal, lung, or pancreatic cancer.
• Have a primary diagnosis of unresectable or Stage IV 1) non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), 2) pancreatic adenocarcinoma, or 3) colorectal cancer (CRC).
⁃ Note: Patients do not need to have cachexia to be eligible
• Plan to start first line systemic anti-cancer therapy (chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy) in the next 6 weeks or has started first-line systemic therapy in the previous 6 weeks.
⁃ Note: Patients who received systemic anti-cancer therapy previously as part of adjuvant or neoadjuvant therapy and have since recurred are still eligible if such treatment was longer than 6 months prior to enrollment.
• Have an an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status of 0, 1 or 2.
• Be able to understand, speak and read English.
• Be 18 years or older