Aim: This pilot study aimed to compare muscle strength and quality of life (QOL) in cancer patients suffering from two different "typical male" cancer entities (prostate cancer and head and neck cancer).
Methods: The Biodex System 3 device was used for isokinetic strength testing of thigh muscles in both groups. QOL was evaluated by using the SF-36 Health Survey.
Results and discussion: Surprisingly, prostate cancer patients showed significantly higher values for muscular strength of thigh muscles than significant younger patients with head and neck cancer. Furthermore, prostate cancer patients revealed significantly better values in QOL subscales "bodily pain" and "physical functioning".