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Fatigue is the premier patient complaint during treatment, which commonly persist in a disabling fashion after treatment, called post-cancer fatigue (PCF). Even 4-years following treatment, 43% of the 1.1 million survivors’ report fatigue as the side-effect having the greatest impact on their lives. Patients suffer significant declines in quality of life and function, with many unable to return to work/study following treatment. The pathophysiology is not well understood but, the evidence-based treatment is supportive care, including symptom control, psychological care (cognitive behavioural therapy), and rehabilitation-type therapies (activity pacing and graded exercise therapy) with the aim of improving symptoms and function.
This presentation will outline essential considerations for both research and clinical practice in the management of cancer-related and post-cancer fatigue. It will introduce a conceptual framework for understanding fatigue states, approaches to assessment, and evidence-based non-pharmacological interventions. The complex interplay between fatigue and associated symptoms - including cognitive difficulties, sleep-wake cycle disturbances, pain, low mood and worry - will be examined, alongside strategies for integrated symptom management. Emphasis will be placed on multidisciplinary care, highlighting the roles of medical professionals, physical therapists (e.g., exercise physiologists, physiotherapists), and psychological therapists (e.g., clinical psychologists) in delivering comprehensive support.