To screen for disease-related weight change, which question would you ask?

To screen for disease-related weight change, which question would you ask?

• A. Have you noticed any intentional weight loss in the last 6 months?
• B. Have you noticed any unintentional weight loss in the last 6 months?
• C. Have you gained weight recently due to a new diet?
• D. Do you exercise regularly?

Answer: (B)

Focusing on unintentional weight change is key when screening for disease-related issues. If weight loss happens without the person trying to lose weight, it can be a sign of an underlying condition such as cancer, thyroid problems, infections, or gastrointestinal or metabolic disorders. Setting a six-month window helps capture meaningful changes that warrant further evaluation. In contrast, intentional weight loss reflects a deliberate plan (diet or increased activity) and is not typically a red flag for disease. Weight gain from a new diet or exercise program likewise isn’t specific to illness. So the most useful question is whether there has been unintentional weight loss in the past six months.

Focusing on unintentional weight change is key when screening for disease-related issues. If weight loss happens without the person trying to lose weight, it can be a sign of an underlying condition such as cancer, thyroid problems, infections, or gastrointestinal or metabolic disorders. Setting a six-month window helps capture meaningful changes that warrant further evaluation. In contrast, intentional weight loss reflects a deliberate plan (diet or increased activity) and is not typically a red flag for disease. Weight gain from a new diet or exercise program likewise isn’t specific to illness. So the most useful question is whether there has been unintentional weight loss in the past six months.