Using Strength Tests to Better Understand How Pancreatic Cancer Affects Muscle Mass and Quality of Life

Monitoring Physical Function Changes in Patients With Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Potential for Better Understanding of Treatment Trajectory and Survival

The goal of this clinical trial is to measure hand grip strength in adults with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). The main questions it aims to answer are:

• Is it feasible to measure hand grip strength as part of a clinic visit?
• Are changes in hand grip strength related to changes in body composition?
• Is hand grip strength related to a person's well-being?
• Is hand grip strength related to how a tumour responds to treatment?

Participants will squeeze a device with their hand to measure their hand grip strength and complete questionnaires about their well-being when they are seen in clinic for their regular medical care for PDAC.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 18 years or older.
• Histological and/or radiological diagnosis of resectable, non-resectable, or metastatic PDAC. For resectable PDAC, adjuvant setting only.
• ECOG performance status 0-2.
• Life expectancy greater than 6 months as judged by the investigator.
• Planned for treatment, either as part of routine care or in combination with an investigational agent within another study.
• Ability to hold a dynamometer with one hand.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Individuals with CT imaging performed outside of Vancouver, BC, Canada.
• Individuals who are unfit to undergo CT imaging of the third lumbar vertebra (L3).
• Individuals who are currently participating in a structured moderate intensity resistance training program.
• Individuals who are otherwise judged by the investigator to be unfit to proceed with this protocol.
• Unable to comply with study assessments and follow-up.