The Curbsiders Internal Medicine Podcast
#467 Unintentional Weight Loss with Dr. Eva Szymanski
Jan 20, 2025
Dr. Eva Szymanski, a geriatrician at Penn Medicine, shares invaluable insights on unintentional weight loss in older adults. She delves into the 5Ms framework, discussing medical, mental, and social factors contributing to weight loss. The conversation highlights the significance of medication review and deprescribing to enhance patient care. Dr. Szymanski also emphasizes the need for comprehensive evaluations to address weight loss and its links to serious health issues. Listeners will appreciate her practical strategies and compassionate approach to geriatric care.
01:08:36
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Quick takeaways
- Unintentional weight loss exceeding 5% in older adults often indicates significant underlying health issues requiring comprehensive assessment and intervention.
- The Geriatric 5Ms framework—multi-complexity, mind, mobility, medications, and what matters most—provides a holistic approach to addressing weight loss in older adults.
Deep dives
Understanding Unintentional Weight Loss in Older Adults
Unintentional weight loss in older adults can signify serious underlying issues, warranting further investigation. A weight loss of more than 5% of a person's usual body weight over six to twelve months is generally considered concerning, and can often be linked to factors like depression, cognitive impairments, or medical conditions. It is critical to distinguish this from more benign age-related weight loss, which typically does not exceed about 0.4 pounds per year. Understanding these differences helps healthcare providers engage patients in meaningful discussions about these symptoms and their implications.
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