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Antibiotic adoption effects on nutrition and quality of life in lung cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy and chemotherapy: A meta-analysis

Zhao Z, Yua Y

Technology and health care : official journal of the European Society for Engineering and Medicine, 2024

1,917 participants · 1 citation

Abstract

Background: Lung cancer (LC) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Treatment methodologies such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy have improved patient survival rates. Nevertheless, these treatments can also lead to adverse reactions and impact patients' nutritional status and quality of life (QOL). Antibiotics are commonly used for treating infections, but there is still controversy regarding their potential adverse effects on LC patients.

Objective: This work aimed to investigate the impact of antibiotic adoption on the nutritional status and QOL of LC patients undergoing radiotherapy or chemotherapy, providing valuable insights for the clinical management of LC.

Methods: A meta-analysis approach was employed to comprehensively evaluate the relationship by synthesizing relevant literature. Published studies were identified through searches in databases such as PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and CNKI. The inclusion criteria encompassed randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and cross-sectional studies. Assessment indicators included patient weight, BMI, hemoglobin levels, and QOL. Meta-analysis was conducted using software such as the Cochrane Collaboration and RevMan5.3. Heterogeneity was evaluated using the Higgins I2 index, where values between 25% and 50% indicate moderate heterogeneity, and values greater than 50% indicate substantial heterogeneity.

Results: 12 eligible studies involving 1,917 patients were finally included. LC…

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 1,917 participants or records.

How the five levels of evidence work. The level is assigned automatically from the abstract and can be wrong, so check the paper.

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