Rekha Devi Rekha Devi Asked 7 months ago

Can you gain weight with cancer?

My relative is undergoing cancer treatment, and we've noticed she's actually gaining some weight, which is surprising since we often hear about weight loss. Is it possible for a person to gain weight even when battling cancer?

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8 answers

Ananya Roy Ananya Roy Joined Feb 2026 7 months ago
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Yes, weight changes can happen depending on the type of cancer or treatments like steroids. My mother's oncologist at Tata Memorial was very clear that any sudden weight gain or loss should be reported immediately, so ask your doctor.

Savitri Devi Savitri Devi Joined Feb 2026 7 months ago

Yes, sometimes medicines and fluid retention can cause weight gain during this difficult time. Giving light home-cooked food like mung dal khichdi can support their digestion, but always follow the doctor's instructions.

Alka Pandey Alka Pandey Joined Feb 2026 7 months ago

Weight gain can happen due to stress, hormonal therapies, or fluid buildup in the body. Gentle breathing exercises and light yoga, if allowed by the doctor, can help manage the stress and circulation during treatment.

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Consult a radiation oncologist

Ketan Patel Ketan Patel Joined Jan 2026 7 months ago

Yes, medications can affect metabolism and cause weight fluctuations. Just like managing blood sugar, it is very important to monitor dietary intake and discuss any sudden shifts with the treating specialist.

Rajesh Khanna Rajesh Khanna Joined Mar 2026 7 months ago

Weight gain is actually common with certain hormone therapies or steroid medications used during chemotherapy. Our oncologist explained that this is often water retention or hormonal shifts rather than actual fat gain, so tracking details with the medical team is crucial.

Nisha Kulkarni Nisha Kulkarni Joined Jan 2026 7 months ago

During my chemotherapy, I actually gained about 8 kgs because of the heavy steroid doses. Don't beat yourself up over it; focus entirely on completing your treatment, and the weight will balance out later.

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Suresh Kumar Suresh Kumar Joined Jan 2026 7 months ago

Yes, weight gain can happen. It is best to maintain a proper food and weight diary to share with your oncology team.

Harpreet Singh Harpreet Singh Joined Apr 2026 7 months ago

Look, people usually associate cancer with weight loss, but therapy-induced weight gain is also very real. Don't try any self-dieting to lose it; speak directly to the doctor about what is causing it.

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