Cancer-Related Muscle Loss

Cancer-related muscle loss, or cachexia, is characterized by progressive weight loss and rapid wasting of lean muscle mass. It is one of the most distressing and frequently observed manifestations of advanced cancer.

Approximately 80% of advanced cancer patients suffer from cancer-related muscle loss
An estimated 20% of all cancer deaths are the result of cancer-related muscle loss

Quality of life suffers tremendously for cachectic patients and their family members. Patients suffer from muscle atrophy, fatigue, reduced mobility, drastic alterations in body image, and a general decline in health. Moreover, in their more fragile state, cachectic patients have a lower likelihood of responding to or tolerating surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Cancer-related muscle loss results from defective metabolism

Cancer-related muscle loss results from a shift in the body’s metabolism towards the breakdown of skeletal muscle for energy. As a result, muscle mass is continuously depleted without corresponding repair or new growth. Since the body’s metabolism has changed, simply increasing dietary intake does not alter the course of the condition.

Few effective therapies exist for cancer-related muscle loss

Despite the severity and prevalence of cancer-related muscle loss, currently available therapies are woefully inadequate. Hormones, corticosteroids and cannabinoids may be employed to improve appetite and weight gain, but benefits are modest and short-lived. Moreover, weight gain from these treatments is typically the result of increased body fat and fluid, not the replacement of lean muscle mass. These therapies are also associated with serious side effects including thromboembolism, diabetes, bone fragility, mood effects, and a decline in response rate to chemotherapy.

High-quality muscle mass can produce meaningful benefits to patients

There is a tremendous need for a novel, anabolic muscle agent like ACE-031 that can rebuild lean muscle mass in cancer patients. Replenishing lost muscle could maintain physical function, extend survival, and improve the sense of well-being and quality of life for these patients.

Learn about ACE-031 for Muscle Growth and Repair