Mapping the research landscape and future directions of sarcopenia and cancer through bibliometric analysis

Introduction​ This study uses bibliometric methods to systematically analyze the relationship between sarcopenia and cancer, focusing on exploring research trends of sarcopenia in the context of cancer. With global ageing accelerating, sarcopenia has become a significant public health issue, especially among cancer patients. Existing evidence shows that sarcopenia profoundly impacts cancer patients' survival and treatment responses and is closely related to cancer-induced metabolic disruptions, inflammatory mechanisms, etc. However, the research trends in this field lack comprehensive understanding, and the temporal dynamics of research priorities remain unclear. We hypothesize bibliometric analysis can identify the temporal evolution of research hotspots from basic mechanisms to clinical interventions. Despite growing evidence of their association, how research priorities have changed over time, especially the shift to personalized management, remains unaddressed.​ Methods​ We analyzed literature published from 2004 to 2023 to uncover the temporal trends of sarcopenia research related to cancer and explore their underlying mechanisms and clinical associations. Bibliometric tools were used to evaluate publications, citation metrics, author collaborations, and journal impact factors. Citation frequency and keyword analysis were applied to clarify the knowledge structure and identify research hotspots.​ Results​ Analysis showed a significant increase in research activity over the past decade, mainly focusing on sarcopenia's impact on cancer survival and treatment responses. Key research themes include cachexia, postoperative recovery, chemotherapy toxicity, and the roles of inflammation and metabolic dysfunction in sarcopenia progression. Personalized interventions, such as optimized chemotherapy dosing, exercise regimens, and nutritional strategies, have become crucial for managing sarcopenia in cancer patients.​ Conclusion​ This study validates the hypothesis of growing research focus on sarcopenia-cancer interactions, highlighting trends in mechanistic and clinical domains and providing a theoretical basis for future research. The findings emphasize the importance of personalized management strategies, which can enhance treatment efficacy and improve cancer patients' quality of life. By clarifying the complex interactions between sarcopenia and cancer, this research supports developing targeted interventions to tackle this dual burden effectively.