Significant weight loss

What does "Significant weight loss" mean in a report or doctor's letter? In our medical dictionary, you will find a patient-friendly explanation of the meaning of this medical term.

Explanation

Significant weight loss in the medical context refers to a noticeable decrease in body weight that happens without trying to lose weight. This can often be a sign of an underlying health issue. It's not about a few pounds lost over several months, but rather a substantial amount of weight lost in a shorter period. The exact amount can vary, but generally, losing 5% of body weight in 6-12 months is considered significant.

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