Balance function in cancer survivors and healthy subjects

Abstract

Older adults who have survived cancer experience significantly more falls compared with healthy adult subjects. Adult cancer survivors who are not elderly may also have lower balance function than healthy adults. We examined muscle strength and balance function among 19 cancer survivors and 14 healthy subjects. Muscle strength was assessed using handgrip and knee extensor strength tests. Balance function was evaluated using the Timed Up and Go test (TUG), and body sway was tested using a force platform. No significant differences were found with respect to right and left grip strength or right and left knee-extension strength between the two groups. A significantly higher TUG time was observed in cancer survivors than in healthy subjects ( P < 0.05). With eyes open, the area of the center of pressure was significantly larger in cancer survivors than in healthy subjects ( P < 0.05). Similarly, the length per area was significantly lower both with eyes open and closed for cancer survivors than for healthy subjects ( P < 0.05). Cancer survivors should be evaluated for balance function as there is a potential for impairment. The findings of this study will be relevant in the context of planning for the prevention of falls for cancer survivors.