Evaluation of Cancer Related Fatigue (CRF) In Women with Gynecological Malignancies: A Subjective Report of Psychosocial Issues in Patients Receiving Chemotherapy for Malignant Ovarian Tumors in India

Background: Cancer Related Fatigue (CRF) is one of the most disabling and distressing symptoms affecting physical and emotional wellbeing of patients diagnosed with cancer or receiving its treatment. This poses a detrimental impact on Quality of Life (QOL) of majority of the patients. Although its assessment and identification has been enormously acknowledged in oncology care, however it is being seldom addressed or reported in majority of the Indian patients. Objective: The current study explores the prevalence of Cancer related fatigue among Indian ovarian cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. Material and Methods: Using Multidimensional Assessment of fatigue inventory (MAF inventory), fatigue and its severity was assessed and an in-depth semi structured interview schedule was constructed to explore psychosocial concerns of the patients. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS 21. Results: Eighty-nine women with confirmed ovarian malignancies were included, and 38% of them were in fourth decade of life, followed by 28% and 20% in fifth and sixth decades respectively. Almost 41% of women had not even received their primary education and most (83%) came from middle social economic families. Nearly half of them were aware of their diagnosis but only 13% had awareness of the prognosis. Conclusion: Majority of Indian women with malignant ovarian cancer experience fatigue, during their chemotherapy. Elderly women experience it more than younger counterparts. Also associated with it are many psychosocial concerns that are of significant relevance, while they receive chemotherapy. Future research should explore more physical and psychological parameters associated with fatigue so that appropriate psychological therapies and intervention are designed to address this clinically significant issue. Also irrespective of their awareness of their disease diagnosis and prognosis, patients should be counseled for expected fatigue so that they cope up well it, which can lead to their better Quality of Life.