Clinical Predictors of Early Mortality in Colorectal Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy: Results From a Global Prospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND: Early mortality is a major problem in colorectal cancer (CRC). We have shown that Khorana Score is predictive of early mortality in other cancers. Here, we evaluated the value of this score and other prognostic variables in predicting early mortality in CRC. METHODS: CANTARISK was a prospective, noninterventional, global cohort study in patients with CRC initiating a new chemotherapy regimen. Data were collected at zero, two, four, and six months. Early mortality was defined as death within six months of enrollment. All data were compiled centrally and analyzed after the study closed. Statistically significant univariate associations were tested in multivariable models; adjusted odds ratios (ORs) are presented. Statistical tests were two-sided. RESULTS: From 2011 to 2012, 1789 CRC patients were enrolled. The median age was 62 years; 71% were Caucasian. One-third (35%) had a rectal primary, and 65% had metastatic disease. There were 184 (10.3%) patients who died during their first six months in the study. For low, intermediate, and high Khorana Score, there were 8.1%, 11.2% and 32.5% deaths, respectively. In multivariable analyses, Khorana Score was an independent predictor of early death (OR for high/intermediate vs low score = 1.70, P = .0027), in addition to age (OR for each incremental year = 1.03, P = .0014), presence of metastatic disease (OR = 3.28, P < .0001), and Easter Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status Score of 2 or higher (OR = 3.85, P < .0001). CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that Khorana Score is predictive of early mortality in CRC patients. Intermediate- or high-risk patients, as defined by this score, may benefit from additional interventions aimed at reducing early mortality.