Fatigue: the most important consideration for the patient with cancer.

The Fatigue Coalition--a multidisciplinary group of medical practitioners, researchers, and patient advocates--conducted a study to determine the effects of fatigue on cancer patients. The study, published in September 1998, examined cancer patients, caregivers, and oncologists. This survey presents new information about how fatigue is perceived by the patient, caregiver, and oncologist. In response to the survey, the group developed a series of educational and research initiatives designed to help patients and physicians better understand chemotherapy-related fatigue and provide successful interventions.