Identifying factors associated with falls in postmenopausal breast cancer survivors: A multi-disciplinary approach

Abstract

Objective: To identify neuromuscular, balance, and vision factors that contribute to falls in recently treated breast cancer survivors (BCS) and explore links between fall risk factors and cancer treatment. Design Case-control plus prospective observation. Setting Comprehensive cancer center. Participants BCS (N=59; mean age, 58y) within 2 years of chemotherapy completion and/or on adjuvant endocrine therapy. Interventions Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures Objective measures of postural control, vision, and neuromuscular function included: (1) a sensory organization test (SOT), (2) a visual assessment battery, (3) muscle mass by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry, and (4) neuromuscular function with strength by repetition maximum, power by timed stair climb, and gait speed by 4m walk. Falls were self-reported for the past year (retrospective) and monthly for 6 months (prospective). Results Fifty eight percent of BCS reported falls in the past year. BCS with a history of falls had lower SOT scores with a vestibular deficit pattern in postural control (P