Differences in Functional Capacity between Oncologic and Non-Oncologic Populations: Reference Values.

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Oncology
• Clinical Nutrition

Background:

• Global aging and rising cancer diagnoses present clinical care challenges.
• Maintaining adequate functionality and body composition is vital for cancer patients undergoing antineoplastic treatment.
• These factors influence treatment tolerance, survival rates, and overall quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess and compare body composition and functionality between cancer patients and a reference population.
• To establish meaningful, age-specific baseline values for oncologic patients.
• To inform clinical practice for faster and more accurate frailty assessment in cancer care.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional comparative study design.
• Data collection using manual dynamometry, the Five-Times Sit-to-Stand test, and bioimpedance analysis.
• Involved 374 oncologic patients and 1244 reference individuals.

Main Results:

• Significant disparities in functionality and body composition were observed between cancer patients and the reference group.
• Age group-specific adjusted baseline values for cancer patients were established.
• The findings highlight the need for tailored assessment tools for this population.

Conclusions:

• Established baseline values can facilitate the application of specific cut-off points for frailty assessment in cancer patients.
• This can lead to faster, more accurate assessments and improved clinical decision-making.
• Enhanced frailty management in cancer patients can improve treatment outcomes and quality of life.