Obese Cancer Patients may Receive Lower Levels of Chemo

Chemotherapy, a drug treatment that uses powerful chemicals to kill fast-growing cancer cells in the body, is often used to treat advanced signs of the disease or cancerous tissues that are metastasizing at a high rate.

As this can be an effective way to treat health issues, it can also pose some serious side effects that could lead to serious complications.

A new report looks into how doctors determine dosages of chemotherapy for some patients, specifically noting that obese cancer patients may actually be receiving lower doses of chemotherapy treatments. In fact, the study notes that some patients may receive as much as 85 percent lower than the ideal dose for around 40 percent of those with cancer.

The American Society of Clinical Oncology notes that they're hoping this may lead to a change in the dosage amount for patients with heavier waits, as it could greatly affect the treatment and recovery they receive.

"There's little doubt that some degree of undertreatment is contributing to the higher mortality and recurrence rates in obese patients," Gary Lyman, a Duke University oncologist, via USA Today.

Yet some doctors call for higher dosages in patients, doctors worry that amounts of medications too large in the body could cause harsh side effects and more serious health complications.

Carol Peterson, an oncologist involved in the Obesity Action Coalition, discusses differing dosages regarding chemotherapy dosages, advocating for full levels unless a patient has other health issues.

"If that's their only problem - if they're just overweight or obese - they can do quite well" with full she said, via USA Today.

The study concludes with researchers emphasizing that patients ask their doctors about dosage, including the risk and side-effects for certain levels.

"Ask your doctor how they plan to treat you and whether you're going to get the full dosing. The doctor may have a good reason not to, but you should have that discussion," commented Lyman.

What do you think?

More information regarding the report can be found, here.