Analysis of Correlation between the Six-Minute Walk Test and Performance Scales in Oncology Patients

Abstract Cancer has a high global incidence, affecting various aspects of patients' lives, particularly by reducing their functional capacity. It is crucial to assess limitations imposed by the disease to manage patients effectively. Performance scales, such as Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) scale, are used to evaluate the functional status of cancer patients. However, the subjective nature of these scales can be an obstacle. In this context, the six-minute walk test (6MWT) may provide an alternative for assessing the functional capacity of cancer patients. The study included 40 participants diagnosed with cancer who underwent 6MWT and ECOG performance status evaluation. The results were analyzed to identify correlations between performance status and 6MWT results. Participants with the poorest performance status (ECOG 2) walked a significantly shorter distance (184.7 ± 71.83 m) compared with those classified as ECOG 0 (399.1 ± 77.71 m) and ECOG 1 (343.5 ± 73.30 m), showing statistical significance (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.0001, respectively). The results suggest that the 6MWT can serve as an objective tool for assessing the functional capacity in oncology patients, complementing conventional subjective performance scales.