In a nutshell
This study evaluated whether quality of life (QOL) scores impact outcomes for patients with aggressive lymphoma. This study concluded that QOL scores at diagnosis may predict survival outcomes for these patients.
Some background
The International Prognostic Index (IPI) is the most widely used tool to predict survival outcomes for patients with aggressive lymphoma. This index is used to measure many factors that affect a patient’s prognosis. However, new tools are needed to better predict outcomes such as relapse (cancer recurrence).
QOL is a way to measure the effects of cancer on a patient’s daily life. Typically, QOL is measured in a survey given to patients before starting treatment. Whether QOL scores at diagnosis impact the survival outcomes of patients with aggressive lymphoma remains under investigation.
Methods & findings
This study involved 701 patients with previously untreated aggressive lymphoma. 47% of patients completed the QOL survey before starting treatment. In this study, QOL scores were on a scale of 0 to 100 points. Patients were followed-up for an average of 71 months.
Overall, better QOL scores were significantly associated with a 14% higher overall survival (time from treatment until death from any cause; OS). Patients with a higher QOL score had a significantly better average OS compared to patients with a low QOL score (121 months vs. 92 months). Patients with a lower QOL score had a significantly higher mortality risk (1.66-fold higher).
The bottom line
This study concluded that QOL scores at diagnosis may predict survival outcomes for patients with aggressive lymphoma.
The fine print
QOL scores are self-reported by patients. Whether improving QOL scores also improves survival in patients with aggressive lymphoma remains to be determined.
Published By :
Hematological Oncology
Date :
Dec 01, 2018
