Clinically relevant fatigue in men with hormone-sensitive prostate cancer on long-term androgen deprivation therapy

The purpose of the study was to determine the prevalence and associations of clinically relevant fatigue (CRF) in men with biochemically controlled prostate cancer on long-term androgen deprivation therapy (ADT).

One hundred and ninety-eight men were surveyed and the prevalence of CRF (Brief Fatigue Inventory score >3) determined. Associations with other measures (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale; International Prostate Symptom Score; European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire; Brief Pain Inventory worst pain; clinical and demographic information) were explored in univariate and multivariate analyses.

Eight-one per cent (160 of 198) of questionnaires were analysable. CRF prevalence was 43% (68 of 160). CRF associations included moderate/severe urinary symptoms, anxiety and medical co-morbidities; the strongest associations were depression [odds ratio (OR) 9.8, 95% confidence interval (CI) 4.3-22.8] and pain (OR 9.2, 95% CI 4.0-21.5). After controlling for other factors, the independent associations were depression (OR 4.7, 95% CI 1.6-14.0) and pain (OR 3.1, 95% CI 1.0-8.9). There was no association with age, disease burden or treatment duration.

Two-fifths of men with biochemically controlled prostate cancer on long-term ADT report CRF that interferes with function. Management aimed at improving CRF should address depression and pain.