Cachexia, a complex wasting syndrome, impacts an estimated 9 million people worldwide.[i] In people living with cancer, cachexia can diminish the tolerance of therapies and is linked to reduced survival rates. Currently, there are no FDA-approved treatments targeting its underlying cause.
Over time, the way researchers and physicians understand cachexia has evolved, with growing focus on uncovering the biology behind this devastating disease.
In an effort to address a critical gap in care and help patients and their caregivers, a team of Pfizer scientists launched a promising research program targeting this often-overlooked condition by working to understand the underlying biology of the disorder, leveraging cross-functional expertise, and seeking early patient input early throughout the development process. This effort led us to focus on the growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) and its potential as an important therapeutic target for this devastating condition.
Understanding Cancer Cachexia: A Three-Part Explainer Series
Graham Ferrier, Global Oncology Medical Lead and one of the dedicated minds behind the program, breaks down the complexities of this condition in a three-part explainer series, shedding light on just how serious cachexia is:
1. What is cachexia?
This video offers an overview of cachexia—what causes it, how it differs from general weight loss, and why it is so difficult to manage in people living with cancer.
2. Who does cachexia affect and how?
Learn about who cachexia affects, how it adds to the challenges faced by people living with cancer, and why it remains so difficult to treat.
3. What is GDF-15?
Discover how our scientists are identifying the underlying biology of cancer cachexia.
[i] Cleveland Clinic. Cachexia (Wasting Syndrome). Cachexia (Wasting Syndrome): Symptoms & Treatment (clevelandclinic.org). Accessed August 19, 2025.