In a nutshell
This study investigated the changes in fatigue (tiredness) severity in patients with rectal cancer undergoing treatment. Researchers suggested that fatigue gradually improves after treatment in these patients.
Some background
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer worldwide. It affects around 104,000 people every year. Of these, around 29% are rectal cancers.
Fatigue is a common (75%) physical and mental symptom among cancer patients during their disease and treatment. Patients with fatigue are commonly unable to perform daily activities or keep focus. This affects their daily living and quality of life.
The standard treatment for rectal cancer is surgery followed by chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy. Some patients undergo chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy before surgery. However, the changes in fatigue throughout treatment are not well understood.
Methods & findings
This study reviewed 9 other studies including information about patients with rectal cancer undergoing treatment. These patients were followed-up before starting therapy and at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months.
The severity of fatigue changed over time and over the course of treatment. It got worse during the first month after cancer therapy, but it gradually improved thereafter. Fatigue affected patients with rectal cancer even before they start therapy.
The bottom line
This study concluded that fatigue gradually improves overtime after rectal cancer treatment.
The fine print
This study was based on medical records. Some information might have been incomplete. This might affect the results.
Published By :
Supportive care in cancer: official journal of the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer
Date :
Jan 30, 2020
