Physical Function and Its Association With Quality of Life in Pancreatic Cancer Patients Receiving Chemotherapy

The relationship between changes in physical function and quality of life in pancreatic cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy is not yet fully understood. This study aimed to examine the physical function trajectories and their relationship with the quality of life in these patients.

A total of 273 patients with pancreatic cancer were recruited for this study. Three physical functional tests (maximum grip strength, 2-minute step test [2-MST], and timed up and go) were performed at baseline (before chemotherapy) and at 2, 4, 6, 9, and 12 months of chemotherapy. Quality of life was measured using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire. A linear mixed-effects model was used to detect changes in physical function over time and to assess associations among the primary outcomes.

The grip strength significantly decreased (P = .005), whereas the number of 2-MST repetitions significantly increased (P < .001) at 12 months of chemotherapy. Both outcomes were significantly correlated with the physical functioning domain (grip strength: P < .001, 2-MST: P < .001). However, only the 2-MST outcome was associated with the global health status domain (P < .001).

Patients with pancreatic cancer showed reduced grip strength and improved 2-MST performance at 12 months of chemotherapy. Both outcomes correlated with health-related quality of life. These findings highlight the importance of monitoring functional performance in pancreatic cancer patients using both tests, particularly during the early phases of chemotherapy, and offer valuable insights for the development of rehabilitation and supportive care strategies.