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Sleep Disorders in Cancer-A Systematic Review
Antje Büttner-Teleagă1,2, Youn-Tae Kim3, Tiziana Osel4
1Institute of Cognitive Science, Woosuk University Samnye-up, Samnye-up, Wanju-gun 565-701, Jeollabuk-do, Korea.
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
|November 13, 2021
Summary
Sleep disorders are highly prevalent in cancer patients, affecting up to 95%. These issues, including insomnia and obstructive sleep apnea (OSAS), require evidence-based treatment alongside cancer care.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Sleep Medicine
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Sleep disorders, particularly insomnia, are common in cancer patients but their prevalence is not well-established.
- Disturbed sleep in cancer is often a comorbid condition influenced by psychological distress, somatic diagnoses, and cancer treatments.
- Predictors include pre-existing sleep issues, mental status changes, and side effects of cancer therapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the literature on sleep and sleep disorders in cancer patients.
- To determine the prevalence and incidence of sleep disturbances in this population.
- To identify common sleep disorders and their associations within cancer care.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature review was performed, identifying 8073 studies.
- Searches were conducted across PubMed, PsycInfo, and Web of Knowledge databases.
- 89 publications met the criteria for detailed analysis.
Main Results:
- Analysis of 89 studies revealed a high prevalence of sleep disturbances and/or sleep disorders in cancer patients, reaching up to 95%.
- Specific sleep disorders like insomnia and obstructive sleep apnea (OSAS) were frequently observed.
- Sleep disturbances were linked to fatigue, psychological issues, and cancer treatment side effects.
Conclusions:
- Sleep disturbances and disorders are highly prevalent in cancer patients, with insomnia and OSAS being common.
- These sleep issues can exacerbate psychological distress and be influenced by cancer treatments.
- Evidence-based interventions are crucial for managing sleep disorders in conjunction with mental and physical health in cancer patients.
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