“Regards Croisés 2009”: French survey about perception and management of fatigue-related cancer.

Abstract

e19653 Background: Despite the frequency of fatigue related-anemia in patients, and its repercussions on the quality of life, patient management remains inadequate. Moreover, few data are available concerning the opinion and feeling of both patients and health professionals on this very frequent symptom in cancer-treated patients. This survey was conducted to asses the position and perception of fatigue in patients treated with chemotherapy, as well as the perception of physicians and nurses who care for these patients. Methods: This quantitative survey of 300 patients, 250 physicians (oncologists, hematologists, pneumologists, and gastroenterologists) and 109 nurses was conducted in public and private French centers. The questionnaires and setup were performed by an independent market research agency under the validation of a multidisciplinary group of experts. Patients included had a diagnosis of breast, lung or colorectal cancer, or non-myeloid malignant hemopathy, were undergoing ambulatory chemotherapy, and presented or had presented with anemia (Hb <11 g/dL) during chemotherapy. The mean hemoglobin (Hb) level at the start of treatment was 9.3±0.86 g/dL and the ongoing mean Hb rate was 10.44±1.09 g/dL. 64% of patients were treated for anemia (transfusion and\or erythropoiesis-stimulating agents). Results: Fatigue was the most common symptom reported for 77% of the patients. In 37% of these cases, fatigue was described as the main problem affecting daily life. Fatigue was evaluated as intense. Most health professionals agreed with the patient's experience. The three surveyed populations agreed that the causes of fatigue were due to multiple factors; however, for the patients, fatigue was less frequently related to anemia. Patients appeared globally satisfied with management and treatment of their cancer but less satisfied with the treatment of their fatigue. The three surveyed populations were in agreement with the importance of good management of this symptom. Conclusions: This survey objectified the need of good management of fatigue in cancer patients confirmed by the different perceptions from patients and health professionals. No significant financial relationships to disclose.