Absolute and Relative Handgrip Strength as Indicators of Self-Reported Physical Function and Quality of Life in Breast Cancer Survivors: The EFICAN Study

Abstract

Background: Although breast cancer (BC) is the most prevalent type of cancer in the world, its high survival rate implies that many people live long after the treatments and face their side effects. The physical function (PF) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of people surviving BC decreases significantly, which makes important to identify markers that may be associated with a better health status and prognosis. Previous studies suggest that handgrip strength (HGS) and HGS relative to the body mass index (rHGS) are good indicators of PF and HRQoL in different populations. However, it is unknown whether this applies to BC survivors. This study aimed to evaluate the association of HGS and rHGS with PF and HRQoL in this population. Methods: Sixty female BC survivors participated. Handgrip strength was assessed with a dynamometer. Arm volume was estimated and upper limb impairments, as well as cancer-related fatigue, depression, life satisfaction and HRQoL, were assessed using standardized questionnaires. Results: Higher levels of HGS and rHGS were associated with higher levels of HRQoL, lower cancer-related fatigue, and fewer problems with the affected arm. Conclusions: These results suggest that HGS may be a good indicator of self-reported PF and HRQoL in female BC survivors.

Relative Handgrip Strength Mediates the Relationship between Hemoglobin and Health-Related Quality of Life in Older Korean Adults

“…In a prospective population-based follow-up study, Taekema et al [ 17 ] showed that poor handgrip strength predicted impaired ADL and cognitive decline in 555 older adults aged 85 years and older in the Netherlands. Additionally, previous studies have reported that handgrip strength is an important determinant of HRQoL in cancer survivors in Korea [ 21 ] and Spain [ 22 ]. Taken together, the findings from the current and previous studies support the prognostic roles of anemia and weak handgrip strength in identifying poor HRQoL later in life.…”

“…From this perspective, loss of muscle strength assessed by handgrip strength is associated with health conditions, sarcopenia, disability, impaired physical functioning, and cognitive decline in older adults [ 17 ]. Additionally, handgrip strength is a biomarker for a lower HRQoL in older populations [ 18 , 19 , 20 ] and cancer survivors [ 21 , 22 ].…”

Psychological and sexual problems of cancer survivors

“…A further physical health-related challenge breast cancer survivors often face is changes in their appearance, such as weight loss. According to research, cancer therapy causes weight fluctuations, as well as changes in skin and nail color (13). Breast cancer survivors often feel embarrassed, lose their confidence, and have body image problems due to their changed appearance.…”

Rehabilitation Exercises Supported by Monitor-Augmented Reality for Patients with High-Grade Glioma Undergoing Radiotherapy: Results of a Randomized Clinical Trial

“…HGS is a predictor of mortality and length of hospital stay [36]. This measurement is widely used to assess older individuals and cancer patients [37,38]. The HGS test was performed according to the guidelines established by the American Society of Hand Therapists [39] using a hand hydraulic dynamometer (JAMAR, Sammons Preston Rolyan, Bolingbrook, IL, USA).…”