What does a higher score on the ECOG performance status scale indicate?

A higher score on the ECOG performance status scale indicates better patient functionality. The Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status scale is a standard measure used to assess a patient's level of functioning and ability to perform daily activities. The scale ranges from 0 to 5, with lower scores indicating better functional abilities. For instance, a score of 0 means the patient is fully active and able to carry on all pre-disease activities without restriction, while higher scores suggest more significant functional impairment. Therefore, a higher score correlates with a decline in performance status and function.

In this context, a higher score does not reflect more advanced cancer stages, lower pain levels, or increased dependency on caregivers, which are assessed through different metrics or clinical evaluations. Understanding the ECOG scale is crucial in oncology as it helps guide treatment decisions and predict outcomes based on a patient’s functional status.