Performance Status - ECOG/WHO/Zubrod Score

ECOG/WHO/Zubrod Score

The ECOG score (published by Oken et al. in 1982), also called the WHO or Zubrod score (after C. Gordon Zubrod), runs from 0 to 5, with 0 denoting perfect health and 5 death: Its advantage over the Karnofsky scale lies in its simplicity.

• 0 – Asymptomatic (Fully active, able to carry on all predisease activities without restriction)
• 1 – Symptomatic but completely ambulatory (Restricted in physically strenuous activity but ambulatory and able to carry out work of a light or sedentary nature. For example, light housework, office work)
• 2 – Symptomatic, <50% in bed during the day (Ambulatory and capable of all self care but unable to carry out any work activities. Up and about more than 50% of waking hours)
• 3 – Symptomatic, >50% in bed, but not bedbound (Capable of only limited self-care, confined to bed or chair 50% or more of waking hours)
• 4 – Bedbound (Completely disabled. Cannot carry on any self-care. Totally confined to bed or chair)
• 5 – Death