Physical function as a prognostic biomarker among cancer survivors

BACKGROUND: We tested the hypothesis that objectively measured physical function predicts mortality among cancer survivors. METHODS: We assessed objectively measured physical function including the short physical performance battery (SPPB) and fast walk speed in older adult cancer survivors. RESULTS: Among 413 cancer survivors, 315 (76%) died during a median follow-up of 11.0 years. In multivariable-adjusted analyses, each 1-unit increase in the SPPB score and 0.1 m s(−1) increase in fast walk speed predicted a 12% reduction in mortality (hazard ratio (HR): 0.88 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.82–0.94); P<0.001, and HR: 0.88 (95% CI: 0.82–0.96); P=0.003, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Objectively measured physical function may predict mortality among cancer survivors.