Cancer survivors are more likely to experience fatigue and depression than men, according to a new study published at the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting. Women who survive cancer are 69% more likely to experience cancer-related fatigue and 58% more likely to suffer from depression compared to men.
The study, led by Simo Du, MD, MHS, analyzed responses from 1555 cancer survivors over two cycles of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey between 2015 and 2022. The researchers found that fatigue affects up to 80% of patients who receive chemotherapy or radiation, while depression affects about 25%.
Fatigue can persist even after cancer treatment ends, and women may be more likely to experience lower rates of physical activities and quality of life due to the fallout from higher rates of fatigue and depression. Dr. Du noted that “it’s usually not relieved by having rest.”
The study highlights the importance of providing special attention and tailored interventions such as exercise programs, support groups, and mind-body behavioral techniques for vulnerable groups to help effectively manage fatigue and improve participation in recreational activities.
Researchers found that individualized plans will take into account the need for some patients to avoid infections; thus, swimming is not advised. Patients with metastatic bone disease should not lift weights. “We need to find the best for each patient with different types of cancer,” Dr. Du said.
Future studies are planned to evaluate how well interventions work in combatting fatigue and how inflammatory markers can help physicians trace fatigue by gender.
Source: https://www.ajmc.com/view/fatigue-depression-hit-harder-on-women-cancer-survivors-data-show