Role of Bioimpedance Phase Angle and Hand Grip Strength in Predicting 12-Month Mortality in Patients Admitted with Haematologic Cancer

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Haematologic cancers, such acute leukaemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma, are associated with high morbidity and mortality rates, often exacerbated by malnutrition and functional decline. This study aims to evaluate the prognostic value of bioimpedance phase angle (PhA) and hand grip strength (HGS) as nutritional and clinical markers for predicting 12-month mortality in hospitalized patients with haematologic cancers. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted on 121 patients admitted to Hospital Quironsalud Málaga between January 2019 and June 2021. PhA was measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and HGS was assessed using a dynamometer. Nutritional status was evaluated through Subjective Global Assessment (SGA) and the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) criteria. The primary outcome was 12-month mortality, analysed using ROC curves, Kaplan–Meier survival estimates, and multivariate logistic regression models. Results: Lower PhA (<3.8° for females, <5.4° for males) and reduced HGS (<17 kg for females, <28 kg for males) were significantly associated with higher 12-month mortality (p < 0.001). The optimal PhA cut-off showed high sensitivity (85.5%) and specificity (62.2%). Multivariate analysis confirmed PhA as an independent predictor of mortality (OR = 0.417, p = 0.023). Patients with lower PhA and HGS values exhibited reduced survival rates, emphasizing the importance of these markers in clinical practice. Conclusions: PhA and HGS are reliable, non-invasive tools for assessing prognosis in haematologic cancer patients. Incorporating these markers into routine care could improve risk stratification, guide nutritional interventions, and enhance patient outcomes.