Short summary

The project "Improve Pilot" investigates the feasibility of integrating comprehensive geriatric assessment into hematological cancer treatment for elderly, frail patients diagnosed with hematological cancer.

Rationale

Age is a strong risk factor for developing hematological cancer and can be associated with frailty due to comorbidity, weight loss, depression, dementia, etc. Nonetheless, even severely affected and frail patients are often eligible for hematological cancer treatment, though frailty affects patient´s ability to tolerate chemotherapy and may thus negatively affect the outcome of the cancer treatment. The comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) is a multidimensional, interdisciplinary diagnostic process addressing core domains related to frailty and incorporating treatment plans focusing on maximizing overall health with aging.

In this feasibility study, we combine CGA and cancer treatment. The overarching aim of the study is to investigate effects of integrating CGA and treatment on quality of life, complications, and prognosis in older, frail patients with hematological cancer scheduled for systemic treatment using a RCT design. The aim of the pilot study is to test feasibility of the study procedures to inform a subsequent RCT.

Description of the cohort

Study participants will be recruited from department of hematology, OUH. Inclusion criteria are: - 70+ years - Diagnosed with leukemia, lymphoma, myelodysplastic syndrome or multiple myeloma - Scheduled systemic cancer treatment - Geriatric 8 frailty score ≤14 at screening

Data and biological material

Data included are demographic data, clinical data including hematological cancer diagnosis, stage and prognostic score, cancer treatment plan, treatment toxicity, comorbidity, screening for cognitive impairment, screening for depression, medications, quality of life questionnaires (EORTC QLQ-C30 and EORT QLQ-ELD14), questionnaire about physical activity, activity of daily living, nutrition status and physical test of muscle strength.

Collaborating researchers and departments

Geriatric Department, OUH

• Jesper Ryg, Professor, Consultant M.D.
• Ann-Kristine Weber Giger, PhD student, M.D in geriatric training

Quality of Life Research Center, OUH

• Henrik Rode Eshøj, physiotherapist, PhD, project manager

Earsten Health, Australia

• Wee-Khen Soo, M.D. consultant, PhD