Management of cancer-related fatigue in Taiwan: an evidence-based consensus for screening, assessment and treatment

Abstract

Background Cancer-related fatigue is one of the most common and persistent issues experienced by cancer patients. Cancer-related fatigue is a distinct form of fatigue that is subjective, long-lasting and unalleviated by rest or sleep. Studies have shown that almost all cancer patients experience severe fatigue that disrupts the quality of life and physical function, but cancer-related fatigue remains under-addressed in clinical care, and only about half of all patients receive treatment. Methods To increase the awareness of cancer-related fatigue and improve current management, the Taiwan Society of Cancer Palliative Medicine and the Taiwan Oncology Nursing Society convened a consensus committee to develop recommendations for the screening, assessment and treatment of cancer-related fatigue. Results Thirteen consensus recommendations were subsequently developed based on the best available evidence and the clinical experience of committee members. Conclusions These recommendations are expected to facilitate the standardization of cancer-related fatigue management across Taiwan and may also serve as a reference for other clinicians.

Consensus on safety management of novel hormonal therapy for advanced prostate cancer

“…The consensus recommends the use of visual analog scale (VAS) score or numerical rating scale (NRS) score for preliminary assessment of patients to determine the degree of fatigue [ 71 ] . For patients with VAS/NRS scores <4 points, nonpharmacological treatment can be implemented, including low‐to‐moderate intensity exercises, such as walking and yoga, as well as providing psychosocial interventions (e.g., emotional support and stress management).…”

“…During treatment, it is important to manage CRF and promptly monitor and address CRF, in order to minimize its impact on treatment efficacy and patients' QoL [ 71 ] .…”