Cancer-related Fatigue of Breast Cancer Survivors: Qualitative Research

Abstract

Purpose: Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is an important health concern among breast cancer survivors. However, CRF is apt to be dismissed as a minor discomfort by medical professionals. This study aimed to understand the experience of CRF in breast cancer survivors. Methods: We conducted a qualitative study using in-depth interviews and thematic analysis. The 14 participants were over the age of 40, complained of fatigue, and had been battling breast cancer for at least eight months to up to 16 years. Results: The analysis revealed four themes: traces of fighting cancer, inseparable part of the self, difficulty in daily life, and the body’s signals for care. Chronic fatigue initially disrupted the daily lives of the participants. As time passed, fatigue made it difficult for patients to fulfill their roles within their families, and gradually alienated friends and neighbors. Nevertheless, they tried to overcome the symptoms of fatigue by responding sensitively to the warning signs or changes in their bodies. Conclusion: Breast cancer survivors often worry about relapse due to persistent fatigue after treatment completion. Therefore, the results of this study may be useful in developing strategies tailored for managing CRF using a multifaceted approach.