In a nutshell
This analysis examined the risk factors and occurrence of severe fatigue following breast cancer treatment. The authors concluded that approximately one in four breast cancer survivors suffers from severe fatigue.
Some background
Fatigue is a common side effect of breast cancer treatment. Symptoms of fatigue can include lack of energy, sleeping more, feeling tired even after sleeping, trouble thinking and not being able to do normal activities. The rate of occurrence of fatigue in breast cancer survivors remains unclear. To identify which survivors are more likely to develop severe fatigue following treatment, it is important to know the risk factors.
Methods & findings
27 studies, totaling 12,327 patients were included in this analysis. The risk factors and occurrence of severe fatigue following breast cancer treatment were investigated.
The occurrence of severe fatigue was 26.9%. Breast cancer survivors with a partner were 4% less likely to experience severe fatigue than survivors without a partner. Survivors with stage 2 or 3 cancer 18% more likely to experience severe fatigue than survivors with stage 0 or 1 cancer. The risk of severe fatigue was 12% higher in those treated with chemotherapy than those chemotherapy. Survivors treated with surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy were 18% more likely to experience sever fatigue than those treated with other combinations. If hormone therapy was added to these three treatments, the risk of severe fatigue was 38% higher than in other treatment combinations. The risk was decreased by 17% in survivors who only had received surgery compared to survivors who had received additional treatments.
The bottom line
The analysis concluded that approximately one in four breast cancer survivors suffers from severe fatigue, and that treatment type and cancer stage influenced who was most at risk.
The fine print
It should be noted that four of the studies included in this analysis were deemed to be of low quality evidence.
What’s next?
If you feel that you are experiencing fatigue, talk to your doctor about management strategies.
Published By :
Annals of oncology
Date :
Mar 02, 2016
