Health Professionals’ Estimation of Cancer-Related Fatigue in Children

Abstract

Many studies show that cancer-related fatigue is one of the most common symptoms experienced by children as a side effect of cancer therapy. This problem has grown considerably in recent years; the exact mechanisms underlying fatigue remain unclear. Therefore, assessing and managing this symptom can be problematic. This article describes the findings from a survey evaluating how health professionals (n = 56) at the Pediatric Oncology Centers in Izmir currently define and assess cancer-related fatigue. The results demonstrate that while the problems associated with fatigue are acknowledged, assessment tools are not widely used, and the majority of health professionals report that they would benefit from further education on the subject to assist in the care of patients.