The Growth and Trends in Cancer-Induced Cachexia Research: A Bibliometric and AI-Guided Visualization Analysis

Abstract

Background

Over the past several decades, advances in basic and clinical research have increasingly established cancer-induced cachexia as a distinct pathophysiological syndrome that warrants targeted therapeutic approaches alongside conventional anticancer treatments. Despite its high prevalence and substantial impact on morbidity, mortality, and quality of life, the condition remains underrecognized and inadequately managed in clinical practice. Correspondingly, scientific activity in the field has expanded rapidly, spanning molecular mechanisms, clinical characterization, and emerging interventional strategies.

Methods

This bibliometric analysis aims to provide a comprehensive, quantitative overview of evolving research in cancer-induced cachexia over the past 25 years. We conducted a bibliometric analysis of cancer cachexia research published between 2001 and 2025 using the Web of Science Core Collection. A total of 5775 English-language primary research articles were retrieved using the search terms “cancer AND cachexia,” and including papers in English of the types articles, letters, and proceedings papers. Data were analyzed using the Bibliometrix R package and its web interface, BiblioShiny, to assess publication trends, author productivity, collaboration networks, and keyword co-occurrence. Additional visualizations were generated using the R programming language and AI-guided analyses to explore trends and bursts in the evolution of cachexia research.

Results

Cancer cachexia publications increased at an annual rate of 6.7%, exceeding the overall growth rate of scientific literature. In terms of number of papers and citation indices, the Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle is the dominant journal in the field. Research is characterized by high levels of international collaboration, though research networks remain geographically clustered. Keywords were analyzed using co-occurrence networks to reveal specific connections and clusters of research topics. Trend analyses of keywords showed the progression of research in the areas of metabolism and the role of inflammatory mediators. Burst analysis revealed research “hotspots” over the last 25 years including studies of specific interventions such as immunotherapy, gastrointestinal cancers, and metabolic dysregulation.

Conclusions

Cancer cachexia research has expanded significantly over the past two decades but remains limited in scale and fragmented across geographic and disciplinary boundaries. A shift toward investigating biological mechanisms and therapeutics indicates a maturing field with growing translational potential. Growing trends and recent research bursts in immune function and inflammation suggest an important role of these areas in further therapeutic development. Continued integration of clinical, nutritional, and molecular research will be essential to advance effective interventions. This bibliometric analysis offers a data-driven foundation to inform future research priorities and collaboration strategies in cancer-induced cachexia.