Early functional profiling and risk stratification in oncology patients referred to outpatient rehabilitation in a private health center in Chile.

458 Background: Functional capacity is a key prognostic factor in oncology, associated with quality of life, complications, and survival. Early identification of physical impairments allows for timely and targeted rehabilitation interventions to preserve muscle mass, independence, and comprehensive patient care. This study aimed to characterize the initial functional profile of oncology patients referred to an outpatient rehabilitation program in a private health center in Chile and explore its association with clinical variables. Methods: This cross-sectional analytical observational study included oncology patients enrolled in the oncology rehabilitation program at a private health center (Santiago, Chile) between 2022 and 2025. Patients with at least one physical therapy evaluation and complete handgrip strength data were included. Descriptive analysis and Spearman correlations were performed to explore relationships between muscle strength, functional capacity, independence, physical performance, and survival. Results: A total of 235 patients (51% male, mean age 59.4 ± 16.2 years) were analyzed. At baseline, 73% were employed and 74% did not meet WHO physical activity guidelines. Digestive cancer was the most frequent diagnosis (30%), with 39% in stage IV. Median handgrip strength was 29 kg; 88% showed no probable sarcopenia. Functional capacity (STS) was altered in 68%, and 83% showed total independence (Barthel Index). SPPB reported good performance in 59%. PACC stratification showed higher mean strength and survival in the prehabilitation phase (32 kg; 12 ± 11.7 months). Total independence predominated in the coping phase (92%). Statistically significant positive correlations were found between handgrip strength and independence (r=0.22, p<0.005), strength and physical performance (r=0.40, p<0.005), functional capacity and survival (r=0.25, p<0.005), independence (r=0.39, p<0.005), and physical performance (r=0.90, p<0.005). Conclusions: Early functional assessment identified significant physical impairments in oncology patients across treatment phases. Sit-to-Stand performance showed strong correlations with functional status, supporting its role as a simple screening tool to guide rehabilitation interventions.