A simple handshake can reveal a lot about a person's character and attitude. But now, a latest study by Concordia University has found a link between handgrip strength and cancer survival rates.

Researchers said that just by shaking hands, medical professionals can determine a person's capability to fight the deadly disease. They added that a simple squeeze can be used as a diagnostic tool to gauge strength and quality of life among critical patients.

For the study, researchers asked 203 patients with advanced-stage cancers to squeeze a dynamometer with their dominant hand at the McGill Nutrition and Performance Laboratory. The instrument then measured the participant's peak grip strength.

"This measure is one of several to categorize patients according to the severity of their disease. It can help determine interventions they may need, whether clinical, nutritional or functional," Professor Robert Kilgour said in a press release.

The experts said that the handgrip test was a better alternative to measure a patient's body strength than relying on self-reports and other factors like decreasing body weight. The test helps doctors evaluate a patient's decline better.

"Handgrip strength (HGS) has been shown to predict survival and is associated with changes in body composition, nutritional status, inflammation, and functional ability in several chronic disease conditions," the authors wrote. However, till now it was unknown if there was direct link between handgrip strength and advanced cancer patients.

Medical professionals normally categorize patients by percentiles; those who belong in the bottom 10th percentile are in the most serious condition, while those in the 25th are stronger.

Kilgour believes that the test will help patients in all categories, particularly those in the 25th percentile. Patients who belong to the category can enhance their physical and mental health by engaging in physical activity and eating healthier.

 "[Handgrip strength] is independently associated with survival and important biological, functional, and quality of life characteristics in advanced cancer patients," the authors wrote. "Patients presenting with very low percentiles with respect to their handgrip assessment may require timely referral to supportive and/or palliative care services," Redorbit reports.

The finding is published in the journal, Support Care Cancer.