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Huynh TTM, Falk RS, Hellebust TP, Dale E, Astrup GL, Hjermstad MJ, Malinen E, Bjordal K, Kiserud CE, Herlofson BB, Nome R, Amdal CD. Chronic fatigue in long-term survivors of head and neck cancer treated with radiotherapy. Radiother Oncol 2024; 195:110231. [PMID: 38518958 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2024.110231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is lack of evidence on chronic fatigue (CF) following radiotherapy (RT) in survivors of head and neck cancer (HNC). We aimed to compare CF in HNC survivors > 5 years post-RT with a reference population and investigate factors associated with CF and the possible impact of CF on health-related quality of life (HRQoL). MATERIAL AND METHODS In this cross-sectional study we included HNC survivors treated in 2007-2013. Participants filled in patient-reported outcome measures and attended a one-day examination. CF was measured with the Fatigue Questionnaire and compared with a matched reference population using t-tests and Cohen's effect size. Associations between CF, clinical and RT-related factors were investigated using logistic regression. HRQoL was measured with the EORTC Quality of Life core questionnaire. RESULTS The median age of the 227 HNC survivors was 65 years and median time to follow-up was 8.5 years post-RT. CF was twice more prevalent in HNC survivors compared to a reference population. In multivariable analyses, female sex (OR 3.39, 95 % CI 1.82-6.31), comorbidity (OR 2.17, 95 % CI 1.20-3.94) and treatment with intensity-modulated RT (OR 2.13, 95 % CI 1.16-3.91) were associated with CF, while RT dose parameters were not. Survivors with CF compared to those without, had significantly worse HRQoL. CONCLUSIONS CF in HNC survivors is particularly important for female patients, while specific factors associated with RT appear not to play a role. The high CF prevalence in long-term HNC survivors associated with impaired HRQoL is important information beneficial for clinicians and patients to improve patient follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thuy-Tien Maria Huynh
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Department of Oncology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.
| | | | - Taran Paulsen Hellebust
- Department of Physics, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Department of Medical Physics, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Einar Dale
- Department of Oncology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | | | | | - Eirik Malinen
- Department of Physics, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Department of Radiation Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kristin Bjordal
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Research Support Services, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Bente Brokstad Herlofson
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ragnhild Nome
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Cecilie Delphin Amdal
- Department of Oncology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Research Support Services, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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2
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van de Schoor FR, Baarsma ME, Gauw SA, Ursinus J, Vrijmoeth HD, Ter Hofstede HJM, Tulen AD, Harms MG, Wong A, van den Wijngaard CC, Joosten LAB, Hovius JW, Kullberg BJ. Evaluation and 1-year follow-up of patients presenting at a Lyme borreliosis expertise centre: a prospective cohort study with validated questionnaires. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2024; 43:937-946. [PMID: 38492058 PMCID: PMC11108889 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-024-04770-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe the course of symptoms reported by patients with symptoms attributed to Lyme borreliosis (LB) without being subsequently diagnosed with LB. METHODS We performed a prospective cohort study with patients presenting at the outpatient clinic of two clinical LB centres. The primary outcome was the prevalence of persistent symptoms, which were defined as clinically relevant fatigue (CIS, subscale fatigue), pain (SF-36, subscale bodily pain), and cognitive impairment (CFQ) for ≥ 6 months and onset < 6 months over the first year of follow-up. Outcomes were compared with a longitudinal cohort of confirmed LB patients and a general population cohort. Prevalences were standardised to the distribution of pre-defined confounders in the confirmed LB cohort. RESULTS Participants (n = 123) reported mostly fatigue, arthralgia, myalgia, and paraesthesia as symptoms. The primary outcome could be determined for 74.8% (92/123) of participants. The standardised prevalence of persistent symptoms in our participants was 58.6%, which was higher than in patients with confirmed LB at baseline (27.2%, p < 0.0001) and the population cohort (21.2%, p < 0.0001). Participants reported overall improvement of fatigue (p < 0.0001) and pain (p < 0.0001) but not for cognitive impairment (p = 0.062) during the follow-up, though symptom severity at the end of follow-up remained greater compared to confirmed LB patients (various comparisons p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Patients with symptoms attributed to LB who present at clinical LB centres without physician-confirmed LB more often report persistent symptoms and report more severe symptoms compared to confirmed LB patients and a population cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- F R van de Schoor
- Radboudumc, Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud Institute of Health Sciences (RIHS), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - M E Baarsma
- Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - S A Gauw
- Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - J Ursinus
- Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - H D Vrijmoeth
- Radboudumc, Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud Institute of Health Sciences (RIHS), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - H J M Ter Hofstede
- Radboudumc, Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud Institute of Health Sciences (RIHS), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - A D Tulen
- Center for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - M G Harms
- Center for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - A Wong
- Department of Statistics, Informatics and Modeling, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - C C van den Wijngaard
- Center for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - L A B Joosten
- Radboudumc, Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud Institute of Health Sciences (RIHS), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - J W Hovius
- Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - B J Kullberg
- Radboudumc, Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud Institute of Health Sciences (RIHS), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Leclercq A, Chatrenet A, Bourgeois H, Cojocarasu O, Mathie C, Martin T, Rahmani A, Morel B. Multidisciplinary analysis of cancer-related fatigue at the time of diagnosis: preliminary results of the BIOCARE FActory cohort. Support Care Cancer 2024; 32:319. [PMID: 38689167 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-024-08520-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is a common side effect of cancer and cancer treatment that significantly impairs the quality of life and can persist for years after treatment completion. Although fatigue is often associated with cancer treatment, it is also a result of the disease itself, even before intervention. CRF at the time of diagnosis may affect treatment timing or completion and is a consistent predictor of post-treatment fatigue at any time. The mechanisms underlying CRF are multidimensional and not well understood, particularly at the time of diagnosis. METHODS Sixty-five breast cancer patients at the time of diagnosis were included. The participants completed self-assessment questionnaires about CRF, sleep disturbances, and emotional symptoms and wore an accelerometer to assess levels of spontaneous physical activity and sleep quality. During the experimental session, the participants underwent cognitive, neuromuscular, and exercise metabolism evaluations. RESULTS Using augmented backward elimination regression, this study found that emotional symptoms and perceived sleep disturbances were the strongest predictors of CRF (adjusted r2 = 0.51). Neuromuscular fatigability and sleep disturbance were also associated with physical dimensions, whereas cognitive performance was associated with cognitive dimensions. CONCLUSION At the time of diagnosis, emotional and cognitive dimensions are over-represented compared to the general population, and specific subdimensions have specific predictors that support the idea of distinct mechanisms. Evaluating CRF subdimensions and their potential mechanisms at the time of diagnosis would be particularly relevant for identifying high-risk patients and offering them appropriate interventions. TRIAL REGISTRATION This study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04391543) in May, 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Leclercq
- Laboratoire Movement, Interactions, Performance, MIP-UR 4334, Le Mans Université Avenue Olivier Messiaen, 72085, Le Mans Cedex 9, France.
| | - A Chatrenet
- Laboratoire Movement, Interactions, Performance, MIP-UR 4334, Le Mans Université Avenue Olivier Messiaen, 72085, Le Mans Cedex 9, France
- APCoSS-Institute of Physical Education and Sports Sciences (IFEPSA), UCO, Angers, France
| | - H Bourgeois
- Elsan-Clinique Victor Hugo, Centre Jean Bernard, Le Mans, France
| | - O Cojocarasu
- Centre Hospitalier Le Mans (CHM), Le Mans, France
| | - C Mathie
- Centre Hospitalier Le Mans (CHM), Le Mans, France
| | - T Martin
- Laboratoire Movement, Interactions, Performance, MIP-UR 4334, Le Mans Université Avenue Olivier Messiaen, 72085, Le Mans Cedex 9, France
| | - A Rahmani
- Laboratoire Movement, Interactions, Performance, MIP-UR 4334, Le Mans Université Avenue Olivier Messiaen, 72085, Le Mans Cedex 9, France
| | - B Morel
- Laboratoire Interuniversitaire de Biologie de La Motricité, Université Savoie Mont Blanc, EA 7424, F-73000, Chambéry, France
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Esser P, Müller H, Borchmann P, Kreissl S, Knoop H, Platzbecker U, Vucinic V, Mehnert-Theuerkauf A. Web-Based Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy to Reduce Severe Cancer-Related Fatigue Among Survivors of Hodgkin Lymphoma: A Feasibility Study. J Clin Psychol Med Settings 2023; 30:856-865. [PMID: 36808045 PMCID: PMC9943038 DOI: 10.1007/s10880-023-09944-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the feasibility of a web-based cognitive-behavioral therapy to reduce cancer-related fatigue (CRF) among survivors of Hodgkin lymphoma. In this before-and-after trial, patients were primarily recruited via the German Hodgkin Study Group (GHSG). We assessed feasibility (response and drop-out rate) and preliminary efficacy including CRF, quality of life (QoL), and depressive symptomatology. T tests compared baseline levels with t1 (post treatment) and t2 (3 months of follow-up). Among 79 patients contacted via the GHSG, 33 provided interest (42%). Among the seventeen participants, four were treated face-to-face (pilot patients), 13 underwent the web-based version. Ten patients completed the treatment (41%). Among all participants, CRF, depressive symptomatology, and QoL improved at t1 (p ≤ .03). The effect in one of the CRF measures remained at t2 (p = .03). Except for QoL, post-treatment effects were replicated among the completers of the web-based version (p ≤ .04). The potential for this program has been demonstrated, but needs to be re-assessed after identified issues on feasibility have been resolved.Trial registration: The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (Number: NCT03968250).
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Esser
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University of Leipzig, Philipp-Rosenthal-Straße 55, 04103, Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Horst Müller
- German Hodgkin Study Group (GHSG), Clinic I for Internal Medicine at the University Medical Center of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Peter Borchmann
- German Hodgkin Study Group (GHSG), Clinic I for Internal Medicine at the University Medical Center of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Stefanie Kreissl
- German Hodgkin Study Group (GHSG), Clinic I for Internal Medicine at the University Medical Center of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Hans Knoop
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Uwe Platzbecker
- Clinic for Hematology, Cellular Therapy and Hemostaseology, University Medical Center Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Vladan Vucinic
- Clinic for Hematology, Cellular Therapy and Hemostaseology, University Medical Center Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Anja Mehnert-Theuerkauf
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University of Leipzig, Philipp-Rosenthal-Straße 55, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
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Schlecht S, Neubert S, Meng K, Rabe A, Jentschke E. Changes of Symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, and Fatigue in Cancer Patients 3 Months after a Video-Based Intervention. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6933. [PMID: 37887671 PMCID: PMC10606592 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20206933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, social distancing restricted psycho-oncological care. Therefore, this secondary analysis examines the changes in anxiety, fear of progression, fatigue, and depression in cancer patients after a video-based eHealth intervention. We used a prospective observational design with 155 cancer patients with mixed tumor entities. Data were assessed before and after the intervention and at a three-month follow-up using self-reported questionnaires (GAD-7, FOP-Q-SF, PHQ-8, and EORTC QLQ-FA12). The eight videos included psychoeducation, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy elements, and yoga and qigong exercises. The results showed that three months after finishing the video-based intervention, participants showed significantly reduced fear of progression (d = -0.23), depression (d = -0.27), and fatigue (d = -0.24) compared to the baseline. However, there was no change in anxiety (d = -0.09). Findings indicated marginal improvements in mental distress when using video-based intervention for cancer patients for up to three months, but long-term effectiveness must be confirmed using a controlled design.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Elisabeth Jentschke
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Mainfranken, University Hospital Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany; (S.S.); (S.N.); (K.M.); (A.R.)
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6
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Berg M, Silander E, Bove M, Johansson L, Nyman J, Hammerlid E. Fatigue in Long-Term Head and Neck Cancer Survivors From Diagnosis Until Five Years After Treatment. Laryngoscope 2023; 133:2211-2221. [PMID: 36695154 DOI: 10.1002/lary.30534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Fatigue due to cancer is a challenging symptom that might be long-lasting after cancer treatment. The aim of this study was to follow the development of fatigue among head and neck cancer (HNC) patients prospectively and longitudinally and to analyze predictors for acute and chronic fatigue. METHODS HNC patients treated with curative intent were included at diagnosis and completed the following questionnaires multiple times, up to 5 years after treatment: the EORTC QLQ-FA12 for fatigue, EORTC QLQ-C30, and HNC-specific EORTC QLQ-H&N35 together with an anxiety and depression questionnaire. Predictors of fatigue were evaluated at 3 months and 5 years after treatment. RESULTS Of the 311 study participants, 74% responded at the 5-year follow-up. Physical fatigue was significantly worse 3 months after treatment, while emotional and cognitive fatigue were the worst at diagnosis and at 3 months. All fatigue domains were significantly better after 1 year, and the fatigue scores remained stable from 1 until 5 years after treatment. Three months after chemoradiotherapy, physical fatigue was more significant, but no long-term differences due to treatment modalities were found. Depression and anxiety were predictors for chronic emotional fatigue, and local HN pain and swallowing problems were predictors for chronic physical fatigue. Better global quality of life at diagnosis was associated with less physical and emotional fatigue. CONCLUSION Fatigue was worst in the short term for HNC patients and improved after 1 year, and long-term fatigue remained stable up to 5 years after treatment. A few predictors for chronic fatigue were found. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 3 Laryngoscope, 133:2211-2221, 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malin Berg
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ewa Silander
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Mogens Bove
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Northern Alvsborg County Hospital (NAL), Trollhättan, Sweden
| | - Leif Johansson
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Central Hospital, Skövde, Sweden
| | - Jan Nyman
- Department of Oncology, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Oncology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Eva Hammerlid
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
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7
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Pertz M, Kowalski T, Jetschke K, Schmieder K, Schlegel U, Miller D. Pre- and postoperative self-reported and objectively assessed neurocognitive functioning in lower grade glioma patients. J Clin Neurosci 2022; 106:185-193. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2022.10.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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8
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Abel E, Silander E, Nordström F, Olsson C, Brodin NP, Nyman J, Björk-Eriksson T, Hammerlid E. Fatigue in head and neck cancer patients treated with radiotherapy: a prospective study of patient-reported outcomes and their association with radiation dose to the cerebellum. Adv Radiat Oncol 2022; 7:100960. [PMID: 35847551 PMCID: PMC9280038 DOI: 10.1016/j.adro.2022.100960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Although fatigue is a known side effect in patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) receiving radiation therapy, knowledge regarding long-term fatigue and dose-response relationships to organs at risk is scarce. The aim of this prospective study was to analyze patient-reported fatigue in patients with HNC receiving radiation therapy and to explore any possible association with organ-at-risk doses. Methods and Materials Patients with HNC referred for curative radiation therapy were eligible for inclusion in the study. To assess patient-reported fatigue, quality of life questionnaires (European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ-C30 and QLQ-FA12) were distributed before treatment and 1, 3, 6, 12, 24, and 60 months after the start of treatment. Mean dose (Dmean) and near maximum dose (D2%) of the cerebellum and brain stem were evaluated in relation to baseline-adjusted fatigue scores at 3 months. Results One hundred twenty-six patients treated with intensity modulated radiation therapy between 2008 and 2010 were available for final analysis. Female sex and age <60 years were associated with higher fatigue at baseline, whereas patients also treated with chemotherapy had reduced physical and emotional fatigue at 6 months. Physical fatigue (QLQ-FA12 scale) increased from baseline up to 3 months (29 vs 59; P < .0001) but showed no difference compared with baseline from 1 to 5 years. Emotional fatigue was significantly lower at 5 years compared with baseline (14 vs 28; P < .0001). Patients with cerebellum Dmean > 3.5 Gy had higher mean physical fatigue scores at 3 months (38 vs 27; P = .036). Conclusions Although there is a significant increase in fatigue scores for patients with HNC up to 1 year after radiation therapy, this study showed a return to baseline levels at 5 years. A possible association was found between physical fatigue and a higher mean dose to the cerebellum.
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Werner AM, Schmalbach B, Zenger M, Brähler E, Hinz A, Kruse J, Kampling H. Measuring physical, cognitive, and emotional aspects of exhaustion with the BOSS II-short version - results from a representative population-based study in Germany. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:579. [PMID: 35331192 PMCID: PMC8943994 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-12961-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The aim of the present study was the construction and psychometric evaluation of a shortened version of the Burnout Screening Scales II (BOSS II), a measure for exhaustion and burnout. Methods To this end, among a representative sample of the German general population (N = 2429, 52.9% women), we shortened the scale from 30 to 15 items applying ant-colony-optimization, and calculated item statistics of the short version (BOSS II-short). To estimate its reliability, we used McDonald’s Omega (ω). To demonstrate validity, we compared the correlation between the BOSS II-short and the BOSS II, as well as their associations with depression, anxiety, and quality of life. Furthermore, we evaluated model fit and measurement invariance across respondent age and gender in confirmatory factor analyses (CFA). Finally, we present adapted norm values. Results The CFA showed an excellent model fit (χ2 = 223.037, df = 87, p < .001; CFI = .975; TLI = .970; RMSEA [90%CI] = .036 [.031;.040]) of the BOSS II-short, and good to very good reliability of the three subscales: ‘physical’ (ω = .76), ‘cognitive’ (ω = .89), and ‘emotional’ (ω = .88) symptoms. There was strict measurement invariance for male and female participants and partial strict invariance across age groups. Each subscale was negatively related to quality of life (‘physical’: r = −.62; ‘cognitive’: r = −.50; ‘emotional’: r = −.50), and positively associated with depression (‘physical’: r = .57; ‘cognitive’: r = .67; ‘emotional’: r = .73) and anxiety (‘physical’: r = .50; ‘cognitive’: r = .63; ‘emotional’: r = .71). Conclusions Overall, the BOSS II-short proved to be a valid and reliable instrument in the German general population allowing a brief assessment of different symptoms of exhaustion. Norm values can be used for early detection of exhaustion. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-022-12961-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonia M Werner
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Untere Zahlbacher Straße 8, 55131, Mainz, Germany. .,Department of Personality Psychology and Psychological Assessment, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany.
| | - Bjarne Schmalbach
- Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Markus Zenger
- Faculty of Applied Human Studies, University of Applied Sciences Magdeburg and Stendal, Magdeburg, Germany.,Integrated Research and Treatment Center Adiposity Diseases, Behavioral Medicine Unit, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Leipzig University Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Elmar Brähler
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Untere Zahlbacher Straße 8, 55131, Mainz, Germany.,Integrated Research and Treatment Center Adiposity Diseases, Behavioral Medicine Unit, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Leipzig University Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Andreas Hinz
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Johannes Kruse
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany.,Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Philipps University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Hanna Kampling
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
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Borrelia burgdorferi is a poor inducer of interferon-gamma: amplification induced by interleukin-12. Infect Immun 2022; 90:e0055821. [PMID: 35130450 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00558-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Laboratory diagnosis of Lyme borreliosis (LB) is mainly based on serology, which has limitations, particularly in the early stages of the disease. In recent years there have been conflicting reports concerning a new diagnostic tool using the cytokine interferon-gamma (IFN-γ). Previous studies have generally found low concentrations of IFN-γ in early LB infection. The goal of this study is to investigate IFN-γ regulation during early LB and provide insights into the host response to B. burgdorferi. Methods We performed in vitro experiments with whole blood assays and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of LB patients and healthy volunteers exposed to B. burgdorferi and evaluated the IFN-γ response using ELISA and related interindividual variation in IFN-γ production to the presence of single nucleotide polymorphisms. Results IFN-γ production of B. burgdorferi-exposed PBMCs and whole blood was amplified by the addition of IL-12 to the stimulation system. This effect was observed after 24 hours of B. burgdorferi stimulation in both healthy individuals and LB patients. The effect was highly variable between individuals, but was significantly higher in LB patients six weeks since the start of antibiotic treatment compared to healthy individuals. IL-12 p40 and IL-18 mRNA was upregulated upon exposure to B. burgdorferi, whereas IL-12 p35 and IFN-γ mRNA expression remained relatively unchanged. SNP Rs280520 in the downstream IL-12 pathway, Tyrosine Kinase 2, was associated with increased IFN-γ production. Conclusions This study shows that IL-12 evokes an IFN-γ response in B. burgdorferi exposed cells, and LB patients and healthy controls respond differently to this stimulation.
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11
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Cancer-related fatigue: benefits of information booklets to improve patients' knowledge and empowerment. Support Care Cancer 2022; 30:4813-4821. [PMID: 35147759 PMCID: PMC8853058 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-022-06833-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate cancer patients' knowledge and attitudes regarding fatigue and the potential benefits and acceptability of a brief information booklet. METHODS The CARPE DIEM study assessed knowledge and attitudes regarding fatigue in a diverse group of 50 cancer patients before (T0) and about one (T1) and four months (T2) after reading the booklet. At T1, participants additionally rated its usefulness. RESULTS At baseline, 37.5% of respondents did not know the term "fatigue" or what it meant. Those who already knew something about fatigue mainly had obtained their information from booklets, books, or articles (63.3%) and/or the internet (46.7%). Overall, knowledge gaps existed, particularly about potential fatigue treatment options and whether fatigue is an indicator of cancer progression. Furthermore, 56.4% felt poorly informed, and 46.1% reported feeling helpless in the face of fatigue. Lower knowledge at baseline was significantly associated with lower education and older age. At T1 and T2, there were significant improvements in several knowledge questions and attitudes. Patient-reported benefits included getting new information about fatigue (91.1%), awareness of not being alone with their problems (89.7%), taking appropriate actions (72.9%), and encouragement to talk about their fatigue with family/friends (55.3%) or with a health professional (52.7%). CONCLUSIONS Specific gaps were identified in the provision of information and education for cancer patients about fatigue. A low-cost intervention asking to read a brief information booklet was associated with improved knowledge. This could be considered as a first step offered as part of a bundle of further efforts to improve knowledge and care of fatigue.
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Müller K, Kuipers JG, Weis J, Fischer I, Pukrop T, Rüffer JU, Koller M. Self-reported fatigue in patients with rheumatoid arthritis compared to patients with cancer: results from two large-scale studies. Rheumatol Int 2021; 42:329-339. [PMID: 34272604 PMCID: PMC8800910 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-021-04948-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Fatigue is a common symptom in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and in patients with cancer (CA). The aim was to investigate the degree of fatigue in RA patients as compared to CA patients as well as potential influencing factors on RA-related fatigue. This was a retrospective analyses of two prospective cohort studies that used the EORTC QLQ-FA12 as a common instrument to assess fatigue. The cohort of RA patients was based on a nationwide survey in Germany. The cohort of CA patients was recruited in the context of an international validation field study. Multivariable ANCOVAs compared levels of fatigue between the two cohorts, also including various subgroup analyses. Regression analyses explored influencing factors on RA patients’ fatigue. Data of n = 705 RA patients and of n = 943 CA patients were available for analyses. RA patients reported significantly higher Physical Fatigue (mean difference = 7.0, 95% CI 4.2–9.7, p < 0.001) and Social Sequelae (mean difference = 7.5, 95% CI 4.7–10.2, p < 0.001). CA patients reported higher Cognitive Fatigue (mean difference = 3.5, 95% CI 1.4–5.6, p = 0.001). No differences in Emotional Fatigue (p = 0.678) and Interference with Daily Life (p = 0.098) were found. In RA patients, mental health and pain were associated with fatigue (p values < 0.001). RA patients showed a considerable level of fatigue that is comparable to and in certain cases even higher than that of CA patients. The implementation of standardized diagnostic procedures and interventions to reduce fatigue in RA patients are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Müller
- Center for Clinical Studies, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Jens G Kuipers
- Department of Rheumatology, Red Cross Hospital Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| | - Joachim Weis
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, University Clinic Center Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Irene Fischer
- Institute for Tumour-Fatigue-Research, Emskirchen, Germany
| | - Tobias Pukrop
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | | | - Michael Koller
- Center for Clinical Studies, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany.
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Wang R, Huang X, Wu Y, Sun D. Efficacy of Qigong Exercise for Treatment of Fatigue: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:684058. [PMID: 34239889 PMCID: PMC8257957 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.684058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: Several studies suggested that Qigong exercise (QE) can relieve fatigue in patients diagnosed with various diseases. Our review aimed to evaluate the efficacy of QE for alleviating fatigue. Methods: A related literature search was performed in the PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, China Biology Medicine disc (CBM), China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang, and VIP data bases from inception to November 2020. Information on fatigue, malaise, tiredness, and Qigong research data was collected. Results: Sixteen randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were reported in patients with cancer (n = 4), chronic fatigue syndrome (n = 2), and other diseases (n = 10). The QE groups showed significant improvements in total fatigue intensity [15 RCTs, p < 0.00001; standard mean difference (SMD) -0.69 (-0.95 to -0.44)]. The QE groups did not show significant improvement in quality of life [4 RCTs, p = 0.08; SMD 0.53 (-0.07 to 1.14)]. The statistically significant difference of the subgroup analyses (different primary diseases, QE types, and study quality) also remained unchanged. Conclusion: The findings of this meta-analysis indicate that QE may be beneficial for improving fatigue in patients diagnosed with various diseases. Considering the limitations of the study, we draw a very cautious conclusion regarding the resulting estimate of the effect. Further studies are warranted to better understand the benefits of QE in primary medical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Wang
- Department of Massage, Hangzhou TCM Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xueyan Huang
- Department of Massage, Hangzhou TCM Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yeqi Wu
- Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Dai Sun
- Department of Massage, Hangzhou TCM Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
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Quintero Garzón L, Hinz A, Koranyi S, Mehnert-Theuerkauf A. Norm Values and Psychometric Properties of the 24-Item Demoralization Scale (DS-I) in a Representative Sample of the German General Population. Front Psychol 2021; 12:681977. [PMID: 34194373 PMCID: PMC8236510 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.681977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: The Demoralization scale (DS-I) is a validated and frequently used instrument to assess existential distress in patients with cancer and other severe medical illness. The purpose of this study was to provide normative values derived from a representative German general population sample and to analyze the correlational structure of the DS-I. Methods: A representative sample of the adult German general population completed the DS-I (24 Items), the Emotion Thermometers (ET) measuring distress, anxiety, depression, anger, need for help, and the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy Fatigue Scale (FACIT-fatigue). Results: The sample consists of N = 2,407 adults (mean age = 49.8; range = 18–94 years), 55.7% women). The percentages of participants above the DS-I cutoff (≥30) was 13.5%. The mean scores of the DS-I dimensions were as follows: (1) loss of meaning and purpose: M = 2.78 SD = 4.49; (2) disheartenment: M = 3.19 SD = 4.03; (3) dysphoria M = 4.51 SD = 3.20; (4) sense of failure: M = 6.24 SD = 3.40; and for the DS-I total score: M = 16.72 SD = 12.74. Women reported significantly higher levels of demoralization than men, with effect sizes between d = 0.09 (Loss of Meaning) and d = 0.21 (Dysphoria). Age was not associated with demoralization in our sample. DS-I reliability was excellent (α = 0.94) and DS-I subscales were interrelated (r between 0.31 and 0.87) and significantly correlated with ET, especially depression, anxiety, and need for help and fatigue (r between 0.14 and 0.69). Conclusions: In order to use the DS-I as a screening tool in clinical practice and research the normative values are essential for comparing the symptom burden of groups of patients within the health care system to the general population. Age and sex differences between groups of patients can be accounted for using the presented normative scores of the DS-I.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonhard Quintero Garzón
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Andreas Hinz
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Susan Koranyi
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Anja Mehnert-Theuerkauf
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
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Kieffer JM, Starreveld DE, Boekhout A, Bleiker EM. A questionable factor structure of the multidimensional fatigue inventory in the general Dutch population. J Clin Epidemiol 2021; 137:266-276. [PMID: 34000387 DOI: 10.1016/j.jclinepi.2021.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE One of the most commonly used tools to measure fatigue is the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory (MFI). Studies into the scale structure of the MFI show discrepant findings. The objective of this study was to investigate the scale structure of the MFI in the general Dutch population. STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING Using data from a Dutch probability-based internet panel (n = 2512), the original 5-factor model, a 4-factor, and a 5- and 4-bifactor model of the MFI were tested with confirmatory factor analyses. Additional models were investigated using exploratory factor analysis. RESULTS Results neither confirmed a 5-factor (RMSEA = 0.120, CFI = 0.933, TLI = 0.920) nor a 4-factor model (RMSEA = 0.122, CFI = 0.928, TLI = 0.917). The two bi-factor models also showed a poor fit (bi-4-factor: RMSEA = 0.151, CFI = 0.895, TLI = 0.873; bi-5-factor: RMSEA = 0.153, CFI = 0.894, TLI = 0.871). Exploratory factor analysis did not support an alternative model, but seemed to show robustness in the loading of the original general fatigue items. CONCLUSION Our results did not provide empirical support for a four or five (bi-)factor structure of the MFI, nor for an alternative model. The most reliable scale of the MFI seems to be the general fatigue scale that could be used as a general indicator of fatigue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacobien M Kieffer
- Division of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Daniëlle Ej Starreveld
- Division of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annelies Boekhout
- Division of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eveline Ma Bleiker
- Division of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Clinical Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands.
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Schmidt ME, Hermann S, Arndt V, Steindorf K. Prevalence and severity of long-term physical, emotional, and cognitive fatigue across 15 different cancer entities. Cancer Med 2020; 9:8053-8061. [PMID: 32893501 PMCID: PMC7643651 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.3413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Fatigue prevalence and severity have been assessed in a variety of studies, yet, not in a standardized way, and predominantly in breast cancer patients. Systematic, comparative investigations across a broad range of cancer entities are lacking. Methods The FiX study systematically enrolled 2244 cancer patients across 15 entities approximately 2 years after diagnosis. Fatigue was assessed with the multidimensional EORTC QLQ‐FA12 questionnaire. Physical, emotional, cognitive, and total fatigue were compared across entities and with normative values of the general population. Differences in patients' characteristics and cancer therapy between entities were taken into account using analyses of covariance models. Results Across all entities, mean physical fatigue levels were significantly higher than age‐ and sex‐matched means of the general population for all cancer entities (all Bonferroni‐Holm adjusted P < .01). For most entities also emotional and cognitive fatigue levels were significantly higher than normative values. Age‐ and sex‐standardized physical fatigue prevalence ranged from 31.8% among prostate to 51.7% among liver cancer patients. Differences between entities could not be fully explained by sex, age, BMI, or cancer therapy. Adjusted for these factors, mean physical fatigue was higher for stomach (P = .0004), lung (P = .034), kidney (P = .0011), pancreas (P = .081), and endometrium (P = .022) compared to breast cancer patients. Adjusted means of emotional fatigue were also lowest in breast cancer patients and significantly higher in stomach (P = .0047), bladder (P = .0036), and rectal (P = .0020) cancer patients. Conclusions Physical, emotional, and cognitive fatigue is prevalent in all 15 investigated cancer entities even 2 years after diagnosis. Fatigue in breast cancer patients, the so‐far most studied group, is in the lowest range among all entities, suggesting that the extent of fatigue is still insufficiently determined. Entity‐specific problems might need to be considered in the treatment of fatigue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina E Schmidt
- Division of Physical Activity, Prevention and Cancer, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Silke Hermann
- Epidemiological Cancer Registry Baden-Württemberg, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Volker Arndt
- Epidemiological Cancer Registry Baden-Württemberg, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Division of Clinical Epidemiology and Aging Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Karen Steindorf
- Division of Physical Activity, Prevention and Cancer, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
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Fritschi C, Park C, Quinn L, Collins EG. Real-Time Associations Between Glucose Levels and Fatigue in Type 2 Diabetes: Sex and Time Effects. Biol Res Nurs 2020; 22:197-204. [PMID: 32008368 DOI: 10.1177/1099800419898002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Fatigue is a pervasive and serious complaint among aging adults with type 2 diabetes. Anecdotally, hyperglycemia was thought to cause fatigue, but prior cross-sectional analyses failed to find any relationship between glucose levels and fatigue. However, study methodology may have caused this relationship to be missed. Our aim was to use concurrent and continuous data across 5 days to examine real-time momentary relationships between glucose and fatigue levels by week, day, and time of day. Additionally, we explored how these relationships differed by sex. METHOD Participants (N = 54, 51% male, 54% non-White) wore continuous glucose monitors and wrist actigraphy into which they inputted fatigue ratings 6-8 times daily during waking hours across 5 days. Generalized estimation equation models were used to explore the relationship between glucose and fatigue when averaged by week, day, and time of day. Differences by sex were also explored. RESULTS HbA1c and baseline and real-time fatigue were higher in women than in men. Baseline HbA1c and self-reported general fatigue were unrelated. Fatigue levels averaged by day and time of day were higher in women than in men (p < .05). Glucose and fatigue were significantly related at all levels of data (weekly, daily, and time of day) in women but not men. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that, when measured concurrently, glucose excursions may affect fatigue levels in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia Fritschi
- Department of Biobehavioral Health Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Chang Park
- College of Nursing, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Laurie Quinn
- Department of Biobehavioral Health Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Eileen G Collins
- Department of Biobehavioral Health Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,Research & Development, Edward Hines, Jr. VA Hospital, Hines, IL, USA
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Nesterko Y, Friedrich M, Brähler E, Hinz A, Glaesmer H. Mental health among immigrants in Germany - the impact of self-attribution and attribution by others as an immigrant. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:1697. [PMID: 31852465 PMCID: PMC6921409 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-8060-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In Germany, the term ‘migration background’ has been established to differentiate between immigrants and natives. In the present study post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression were analysed in immigrant populations in Germany by considering self-attribution as well as attribution by others on one’s own ‘migration background’. Methods In a population-based survey (N = 2317), socio-demographic characteristics, migration background (official statistics definition vs. self-attribution as well as the anticipated attribution by others), PTSD (PCL-5), and symptoms of anxiety and depression (PHQ-4) were assessed. Logistic regression models were applied to predict mental health outcomes by considering socio-demographic and immigration-related factors. Results A total of 10.7% of respondents (N = 248) had a ‘migration background’. Immigrants of the 2nd generation compared to 1st generation immigrants are less likely to see themselves as immigrants. Attribution as an immigrant (self and/or by others) was found as significant predictor for PTSD and depression, but not anxiety. Conclusions It seems useful to focus on immigration-related factors considering subjective perspectives and not only comparing immigrants and natives using a federal statistics definition. Our findings suggest that research on the association between immigration-related factors such as attribution as an immigrant and mental health outcomes might be a promising approach to better identify subgroups at higher risk of mental distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuriy Nesterko
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University of Leipzig, Philipp-Rosenthal-Str. 55, 04103, Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Michael Friedrich
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University of Leipzig, Philipp-Rosenthal-Str. 55, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Elmar Brähler
- Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Andreas Hinz
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University of Leipzig, Philipp-Rosenthal-Str. 55, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Heide Glaesmer
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University of Leipzig, Philipp-Rosenthal-Str. 55, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
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Measuring fatigue in cancer patients: a common metric for six fatigue instruments. Qual Life Res 2019; 28:1615-1626. [PMID: 30815769 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-019-02147-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Fatigue is one of the most disabling symptoms in cancer patients. Many instruments exist to measure fatigue. This variety impedes the comparison of data across studies or to the general population. We aimed to estimate a common metric based on six different fatigue instruments (EORTC QLQ-C30 subscale fatigue, EORTC QLQ-FA12, MFI subscale General Fatigue, BFI, Fatigue Scale, and Fatigue Diagnostic Interview Guide) to convert the patients' scores from one of the instruments to another. Additionally, we linked the common metric to the general population. METHODS For n = 1225 cancer patients, the common metric was estimated using the Item Response Theory framework. The linking between the common metric of the patients and the general population was estimated using linear regression. RESULTS The common metric was based on a model with acceptable fit (CFI = 0.94, SRMR = 0.06). Based on the standard error of measurement the reliability coefficients of the questionnaires ranged from 0.80 to 0.95. The common metric of the six questionnaires, also linked to the general population, is reported graphically and in supplementary crosswalk tables. CONCLUSIONS Our study enables researchers and clinicians to directly compare results across studies using different fatigue questionnaires and to assess the degree of fatigue with respect to the general population.
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Susanne K, Michael F, Thomas S, Peter E, Andreas H. Predictors of fatigue in cancer patients: a longitudinal study. Support Care Cancer 2019; 27:3463-3471. [DOI: 10.1007/s00520-019-4660-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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