Phase Angle as a Prognostic Indicator in Breast Cancer
Author Information
Author(s): Gupta Digant, Lammersfeld Carolyn A, Vashi Pankaj G, King Jessica, Dahlk Sadie L, Grutsch James F, Lis Christopher G
Primary Institution: Cancer Treatment Centers of America
Hypothesis
Phase angle, determined by bioelectrical impedance analysis, is hypothesized to be a marker of malnutrition and a prognostic indicator in breast cancer.
Conclusion
The study shows that phase angle is an independent prognostic indicator in breast cancer patients, suggesting that improving phase angle through nutritional interventions could enhance survival.
Supporting Evidence
- Patients with a phase angle score <= 5.6 had a median survival of 23.1 months.
- Patients with a phase angle score > 5.6 had a median survival of 49.9 months.
- Every one unit increase in phase angle score was associated with a relative risk of 0.82.
Takeaway
This study found that a measurement called phase angle can help predict how long breast cancer patients might live, and improving this measurement could help them live longer.
Methodology
A retrospective chart review of 259 female breast cancer patients was conducted, using bioelectrical impedance analysis to measure phase angle and survival data analyzed with Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazard models.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to reliance on historical data not primarily collected for research purposes.
Limitations
The study's retrospective design may limit the reliability of the data, and the BIA technique has variability based on factors like hydration status and body position.
Participant Demographics
All participants were female breast cancer patients with a median age of 49 years, ranging from 25 to 74 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.031
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 14.2 to 31.9 for phase angle <= 5.6; 95% CI: 35.6 to 77.8 for phase angle > 5.6
Statistical Significance
p = 0.031
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website