ECOG Score — What It Means in Clinical Trials
Plain English Definition
The ECOG score is a 0-to-5 scale that measures your ability to function in daily life. A score of 0 means you are fully active. A score of 1 means you have minor limitations but can still do light work. Score 2 means you are up and about more than half the day. Scores 3 and 4 mean you are increasingly confined to bed or a chair.
Why It Matters
Your ECOG score is one of the most common eligibility requirements. Ask your doctor what your current score is before looking at trials — it will immediately narrow down which ones you qualify for.
Example
A listing might say: "ECOG 0-2 required." This means participants must be able to care for themselves and be up and about for at least half the day.
Need help understanding eligibility criteria?
How to Read Eligibility Criteria →