In this practical webinar, Jenny Spencer, RN, oncology nurse navigator and cancer exercise specialist, addresses one of the most common yet under-discussed challenges in cancer care: fatigue. Drawing from 15 years of clinical experience and her research published in oncology nursing journals, Jenny provides clear guidance on understanding and managing this persistent symptom that affects up to 99% of cancer patients at some point during treatment.
Key Takeaways:
What Makes Cancer Fatigue Different
Cancer-related fatigue is not ordinary tiredness. It’s a distressing, persistent exhaustion that doesn’t improve with rest. This fatigue interferes with daily activities, work capacity, and quality of life, and can even affect treatment decisions if it becomes severe enough.
The Causes Are Complex
Fatigue stems from multiple sources: the cancer itself, treatment side effects (chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, immunotherapy), anemia, pain, sleep disturbances, emotional distress, medications, poor nutrition, and deconditioning from reduced activity. Because causes overlap, addressing fatigue requires a multi-pronged approach.
Exercise Is the Strongest Evidence-Based Intervention
Research consistently shows that physical activity is the most effective way to combat cancer-related fatigue. This seems counterintuitive—moving more when exhausted—but exercise:
- Improves cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength
- Reduces inflammation
- Enhances sleep quality
- Boosts mood and reduces anxiety
- Increases energy levels over time
Start small (even 5-10 minutes) and build gradually. Both aerobic exercise (walking, cycling) and resistance training show benefits.
Other Evidence-Based Approaches
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps address thought patterns and behaviors that worsen fatigue
- Yoga and tai chi combine gentle movement with mindfulness
- Sleep hygiene includes consistent schedules, limiting daytime naps to under 30 minutes, and creating restful environments
What to Discuss With Your Care Team
Don’t accept fatigue as something you just have to endure. Bring it up at appointments and ask about:
- Screening for treatable causes (thyroid issues, vitamin deficiencies, depression)
- Referrals to physical therapy, exercise programs, or mental health support
- Medication adjustments if side effects are contributing
About Jenny
Jenny has been in the oncology field since 2010 working in a variety of settings and caring for a variety of primary cancer diagnoses. After witnessing a great need to address cancer-related fatigue and deconditioning, she took a special interest in the exercise oncology field. Resulting in becoming a personal trainer/cancer exercise specialist and facilitating a nurse-led exercise study within the neuro-oncology population, which was published in CJON in April 2021. From there, her passion for exercise oncology grew as she witnessed the power and potential that exercise had in improving quality of life and decreasing cancer-related fatigue. She continues to work as an oncology nurse navigator and speak on cancer-related fatigue and exercise oncology.