December is Cancer-Related Fatigue Awareness Month

There is no official December Cancer Awareness Month. But December is globally observed as Cancer-Related Fatigue (CRF) Awareness Month, a time dedicated to understanding one of the most common and distressing symptoms experienced by individuals undergoing cancer treatment. Despite being widespread, CRF often remains under-recognised, undertreated, and misunderstood.

As healthcare professionals, caregivers and students, this month encourages us to deepen our knowledge, support patients empathetically, and spread awareness about this serious yet manageable condition.

What is Cancer-Related Fatigue (CRF)?

Cancer-Related Fatigue is a persistent, subjective sensation of physical, emotional, or cognitive tiredness related to cancer or its treatment. It is not proportional to activity and does not improve with rest, making it distinct from everyday tiredness.

CRF affects:

• Patients undergoing chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, hormonal therapy

• Cancer survivors

• Individuals with advanced or palliative-stage cancers

Studies show that 70–100% of patients experience fatigue at some point during cancer care.

Why is Awareness Important?

Despite being extremely common, CRF is often:

• Not reported by patients due to belief that it is “normal”

• Not assessed adequately in clinical settings

• Misinterpreted as depression or weakness

• Under-managed, affecting quality of life

Raising awareness ensures:

• Early identification

• Timely intervention

• Improved patient outcomes

• Better caregiving strategies

• Holistic cancer care

Causes of Cancer-Related Fatigue

CRF is multifactorial. Common contributors include:

1. Cancer Itself

• Metabolic changes

• Cytokine release

• Tumour burden

2. Cancer Treatments

• Chemotherapy

• Radiation therapy

• Targeted therapies

3. Physiological Factors

• Anaemia

• Malnutrition

• Sleep disturbances

• Hormonal imbalances

• Infections

4. Psychological Causes

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Stress

5. Lifestyle and Environmental Factors

• Reduced physical activity

• Poor sleep hygiene

Signs & Symptoms of CRF

Patients may experience:

• Overwhelming tiredness not relieved by rest

• Difficulty concentrating

• Reduced daily functioning

• Emotional exhaustion

• Sleep disturbances

• Low motivation

• Irritability

• Feeling “drained”

CRF can affect daily life, work, relationships, and overall well-being.

How to Assess Cancer-Related Fatigue

Clinicians use tools such as:

• Numeric Rating Scale (NRS)

• Brief Fatigue Inventory (BFI)

• EORTC QLQ-C30 fatigue scales

Regular screening during treatment is essential for early management.

Management of Cancer-Related Fatigue

1. Medical Management

• Treat underlying causes (anaemia, thyroid dysfunction, infections)

• Pain control

• Nutritional support

2. Non-Pharmacological Interventions

Exercise – light aerobic activities (walking, yoga) improve energy

Mind–Body Therapies – meditation, breathing exercises

Sleep Management – regular sleep routines

Nutrition – balanced meals, hydration

Pacing Strategies – energy conservation techniques

3. Psychological Support

• Counselling

• Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)

• Support groups

4. Homeopathic Perspective 

Homeopathic physicians may consider individualized remedies after proper case-taking to address:

• Emotional stress

• Physical exhaustion

• Sleep difficulties

Cancer-Related Fatigue Awareness Month reminds us that fatigue is not just “tiredness” but a serious, debilitating condition that deserves attention. Understanding CRF ensures better patient care, early intervention, and improved quality of life.

As healthcare professionals and students, spreading awareness this December can make a meaningful difference in the lives of cancer patients and survivors.