Evaluation of the G8 Screening Tool in Older Patients with Cancer: A Retrospective Analysis

Abstract

Aim: The aims of this study were to evaluate the results of the Geriatric 8 (G8) screening in patients aged 75 years and over. Findings: Of 2,294 patients screened, 177 were ≥ 75 years. 120 patients (68%) were vulnerable as defined by a G8 score ≤ 14. Vulnerable patients showed worse outcomes than fit patients did. In binary logistic regression modeling, the G8 domains of nutritional intake and health status were predictive of hospitalization and of death, when controlling for all other variables. Message: The G8 screening is applicable and can discriminate between fit and vulnerable patients in oncology. Prospective use in treatment decisions might improve care for geriatric cancer patients. Abstract Purpose: To evaluate the results of the Geriatric 8 (G8) screening in patients aged 75 years and over. Methods: In this retrospective single-center study, we screened the medical records of 2294 patients referred to the Department for Medical Oncology in St. Gallen, a tertiary hospital in Switzerland, over a period of 29 days. For each patient aged 75 and older, the responsible oncologist completed the G8 questionnaire. The cohort was followed to obtain data on patient outcomes for the 4 months following the completion of the G8 assessment. Patients’ charts were reviewed following a standardized approach. Information regarding given anticancer treatment, anticancer toxicity, date and reason for inpatient admission, date of inpatient discharge, and date of death was documented. Data were analyzed using the Χ 2 test and binary logistic regression. Results: Of 2,294 patients screened, 177 were ≥75 years. 176 G8 assessments were completed on patients with various tumor types. 152 (86%) were outpatients and 112 (64%) males. Mean age was 79.9 years (SD 4.3). 120 patients (68%) were vulnerable as defined by a G8 score ≤ 14. Vulnerable patients showed worse outcomes than fit patients did. In binary logistic regression modeling, the G8 domains of nutritional intake and health status were predictive of hospitalization and of death, when controlling for all other variables. Conclusion: The G8 screening is applicable and can discriminate between fit and vulnerable patients in oncology. Prospective use in treatment decisions might improve care for geriatric cancer patients.