Prevalence and Factors Associated With Cancer-Related Fatigue Among Children and Adolescents Undergoing Cancer Treatment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
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View abstract on PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.Cancer treatment causes high fatigue in children and adolescents, affecting 73% of patients. Understanding risk factors is crucial for targeted interventions and improved care for pediatric cancer patients experiencing fatigue.
Area Of Science
- Pediatric Oncology
- Clinical Research
- Patient Outcomes
Background
- Literature on fatigue in pediatric cancer patients is inconsistent, leading to uncertainty about prevalence and risk factors.
- Existing research lacks a clear understanding of which children are most susceptible to treatment-related fatigue.
- This variability hinders effective management strategies for fatigue in this vulnerable population.
Purpose Of The Study
- To determine the prevalence of fatigue in patients under 21 undergoing cancer treatment.
- To identify the prevalence of severe fatigue and associated contributing factors.
- To provide a comprehensive overview of fatigue in pediatric oncology patients.
Main Methods
- Systematic literature searches were conducted across major databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane, CINAHL, PsycINFO) up to May 2023.
- Two independent reviewers screened citations and extracted data, with pooled prevalence estimates calculated using a random-effects model.
- Study quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklist.
Main Results
- The pooled prevalence of fatigue was 73% (95% CI: 66%-79%) across 26 studies involving 2699 patients.
- Severe fatigue affected 30% (95% CI: 14%-46%) of patients in 8 studies (1027 patients).
- Fatigue prevalence was significantly higher in inpatient settings (83%) compared to outpatient (55%).
Conclusions
- Fatigue is highly prevalent in children and adolescents undergoing cancer treatment, though prevalence varies.
- Further systematic research into factors associated with fatigue is necessary to identify high-risk pediatric patients.
- This highlights the need for targeted interventions to manage fatigue in pediatric oncology.
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