Fatigue and cancer: causes, prevalence and treatment approaches

L I Wagner, D Cella, L I Wagner, D Cella

Abstract

Fatigue is the most prevalent cancer-related symptom and has a significant adverse impact on patients' functional ability and quality of life. Hypotheses regarding the aetiology of cancer-related fatigue are discussed, and clinical practice guidelines for the evaluation and management of oncology patients with fatigue are reviewed. Both nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic strategies for the management of fatigue are summarised.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Causes of fatigue (Atkinson et al, 2002; Cella et al, 1998; Portenoy and Itri, 1999).

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