Correlates of cancer-related fatigue in colorectal cancer patients at the time of diagnosis.

PURPOSE

To explore the potential correlates of cancer-related fatigue (CRF) at the time of diagnosis, with a specific consideration toward aspects related to physical activity and physical condition.

METHODS

Candidates were patients ≥ 18, diagnosed with colon or rectum cancer (stages I-IV), able to walk a mile or to complete the 6-min walking test. Fatigue was measured through PERFORM which is a multidimensional questionnaire (PQ). Quality of life (EORTC-QLQC30 and EORTC-QLQC29), diet (PREDIMED), and sociodemographic data were also assessed by questionnaires. Physical activity was measured by self-reported questionnaire (IPAQ) and accelerometers, and physical condition through objective tests such as Rockport 1-mile walk, estimated VO peak, 6-min walk, sit-to-stand, handgrip and, anthropometric data.

RESULTS

A total of 238 CRC patients (64.8 ± 11.0 mean age, 66.4% men) were recruited. Mean fatigue PQ score was 50.5. Values under 50.2 were associated with reduced QOL. CRF was associated with female sex (p < 0.001), poorer self-reported perceived health (p = 0.008), being retired woman (p = 0.025), poorer QOL (p =  < 0.001), and a previous diagnosis of hypercholesterolemia (p = 0.032). CRF was associated with a number of symptoms such as pain, anxiety, and gastrointestinal symptoms, in addition to dyspnoea, body image, and financial difficulties. CRF was associated to low self-reported PA levels (in women) and more sedentary levels (in men). CRF was not associated with metastatic stage, physical condition, or objectively assessed physical activity.

CONCLUSIONS

One out of four patients presents CRF at the time of CRC diagnosis. Women reported to have significantly higher levels of fatigue than men. Its association with other symptoms such as pain, anxiety, gastrointestinal symptoms, and its tremendous impact on the QOL make it necessary to ask the patients about fatigue in the first consultation. Oncologists should be aware of the importance of documenting this symptom in the clinical record to guarantee the follow-up and management.