Cancer-related fatigue in cancer survivors: an updated clinical practice review for healthcare providers.

PURPOSE: Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is a persistent and distressing sense of physical, emotional, or cognitive exhaustion that results from cancer or its treatment, affecting approximately 70-100% of individuals diagnosed with cancer. Despite its prevalence and impact, CRF is often underrecognized and insufficiently managed. This review aims to provide healthcare providers with clear, evidence-based guidance to improve the recognition, assessment, and management of CRF across the continuum of cancer care.

METHODS

A narrative literature review was conducted by searching databases for peer-reviewed studies, clinical guidelines, and expert frameworks. Emphasis was placed on high-quality evidence supporting the recognition, assessment, and management of CRF in people with cancer.

RESULTS

CRF may emerge before treatment, intensify during anti-cancer treatment, and persist long after treatment completion. It is multifactorial in origin and varies in severity and duration. Validated self-report tools such as the Numeric Rating Scale and EORTC QLQ-C30 are essential for accurate screening and assessment. Management should begin with addressing reversible contributors and proceed with individualized, multimodal interventions. Non-pharmacological approaches including structured physical activity, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness-based techniques have the strongest supporting evidence. Complementary strategies such as massage therapy, nutritional support, and bright light therapy also show potential benefit. Pharmacologic treatments remain limited in efficacy and should be considered only when non-pharmacologic options are insufficient.

CONCLUSIONS

CRF is a clinically significant and potentially modifiable symptom that warrants routine assessment and personalized management. Integrating evidence-based screening tools and interventions into standard oncology care can improve patient outcomes and overall quality of life.