Peak oxygen uptake after the 80s as a survival predictor

AimIs direct measurement of peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) a predictor of survival in octogenarians?FindingsThe mortality rate was nearly three times higher in individuals with VO2peak below 80% of the predicted values. The data emphasize the prognostic value of VO2peak in older adults, comparable to its significance in younger individuals.MessageOxygen uptake below 80% of age-specific reference values serves as a predictor of mortality in octogenarians. PurposePeak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) is a crucial health marker, extensively studied in adults for its prognostic value. However, its significance in the older persons, especially octogenarians, remains underexplored due to limited representation in research. This study aims to assess the predictive power of VO2peak for survival in individuals aged 80 and above.MethodsWe included individuals aged 80 or older who underwent cardiopulmonary exercise tests at a single center. Mortality rates were compared based on VO2peak relative to 80% of predicted values (%VO2peak). We employed three multivariate Cox regression models: Model 1 (unadjusted), Model 2 (adjusted for age) and Model 3 (adjusted for age and stroke).ResultsAmong 188 participants (mean age 83.3 +/- 3 years, 68.9% male), 22 (11.7%) passed away during a median follow-up of 494 days. Non-survivors tended to be older with lower VO2peak and %VO2peak. All models demonstrated associations between %VO2peak <= 80% and mortality: HR = 3.19 (95% CI: 1.30-7.86, p = 0.011) for M1; HR = 3.12 (95% CI: 1.26-7.74, p = 0.013) for M2 and HR = 2.80 (95% CI: 1.11-7.06, p = 0.028) for M3.ConclusionIn the context of an aging population, this study underscores the enduring significance of VO2peak as a survival predictor among the older person, including octogenarians. These findings carry profound implications for tailoring healthcare strategies to address the evolving demographic landscape.