Psycho-oncology interventions focusing on fatigue and sleep disturbances

Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) and sleep disturbances are common symptoms among patients with cancer. They are often conceptualized as a part of a larger symptom cluster, also comprising pain and emotional distress. Despite their prevalence and long-lasting effects, CRF and sleep disturbances are still poorly addressed in clinical settings. Specific interventions are needed to manage these symptoms.

In addition to conventional pharmacological therapies, other kinds of interventions are increasingly being developed in oncology. This review will discuss three categories of interventions for patients with cancer and their interest in alleviating CRF and sleep disturbances: physical exercises (e.g., aerobic, resistance training, running, free weights), psychological interventions (e.g., cognitive-behavioural therapy, psychoeducational interventions), and mind-body interventions (e.g., yoga, mindfulness, hypnosis). The multicomponent aspect of these interventions seems particularly important to address these symptoms.

The findings detailed in this review will allow the scientific community, as well as health professionals working in oncology settings, to be informed about new nonpharmacological therapeutic options to help patients to manage their symptoms. It could eventually help to improve existing interventions for these patients.