Grip strength was predictive of poorer survival in ECOG-adjusted models, as well: Every 5-kg decrease in grip strength in patients with good ECOG performance status was associated with poorer survival (adjusted HR=1.24; 95% CI 1.07-1.43; p value not provided).
However, there was no association between grip strength and the frequency of hospital use or emergency department visits.
“Gait is a complex activity that reflects the function of many organ systems and is a global measure of a person’s health,†Dr. Driver added. “Thus, its value in the prediction of clinical outcomes may be greater than traditional disease-specific biomarkers used in predictive models for hematologic malignancies. It can serve as a good complement to conventional biomarkers by providing information on overall health status.â€
The study’s recruitment of patients from a single large tertiary center is a limitation, as it may reduce the generalizability of the findings.
“Further studies, including clinical trials, are needed to assess the utility of gait speed in individualizing specific treatment plans, treatment tolerance and toxicity, and quality of life for older adults with blood cancers,†Dr. Driver concluded. “In addition, gait speed could be used to follow health status longitudinally, as it is known to be sensitive and responsive to change across time.â€
The authors report no relevant conflicts of interest.