Throat cancer treatment

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I am almost about to begin treatment for throat cancer. I might need surgery, chemo and radiation. The doctor brought up a feeding tube.  I am concerned with keeping my strength and weight up. What is the average amount of weight loss, and what can I do to add and keep weight on?

Thank you

Keith S.

  • Hi Keith9010

    Thanks for getting in touch with Macmillan Cancer Support. My name is Sarah one of the Cancer Information Nurses on our Support Line.

    I see that you have joined our head and neck cancer forum. I hope you are finding our online community supportive.

    It is not unusual to lose weight when you are going through cancer treatment. This can be for various reasons such as taste changes, nausea and side effects of radiotherapy. This is why your hospital team discuss a feeding tube before treatment starts.

    A feeding tube will provide nutrition and fluids if you are unable to eat enough calories by mouth. You may see a dietician before starting treatment to discuss nutrition and a building up diet to increase your weight.

    Your hospital team may also talk about prehabilitation. This is about preparing for treatment which research has shown can mean fewer side effects and better long-term health. Most hospital trusts will have information on prehab nutrition.

    Although it is difficult to say what is the average weight loss, hospitals will use screening tools such as ‘MUST’ to monitor weight. This is also important when you are having chemotherapy as your weight is used to decide doses of drugs.

    I hope this helps you understand a bit more about how to add and keep weight on whilst you are going through treatment.

    Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you’d like to talk things through. Sometimes it’s better to talk to one of our nurses to understand more about preparing for treatment.

    Please feel free to get back in touch if you want more information or support.

    Best wishes,

    Sarah B

    Cancer Information Nurse Specialist 

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email

    Ref/ SS/JD

    Sarah S-Macmillan Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
  • Yes, we have already discussed a feeeding tube and nutrition programs.

    Thank you