WA Centre for Cancer and Palliative Care

A collaboration between Curtin University and Edith Cowan University

Completed Research Project

Fatigue and functional capacity in women undergoing adjuvant breast radiotherapy

Investigators: Kristjanson L J, Hope P, Sacco P, Spry N & Newton R.

Funding: The Cancer Council WA ($55,000)

Administering institution: Edith Cowan University

Abstract:  To describe fatigue, cardio respiratory and functional capacity in women undergoing adjuvant breast   radiotherapy in comparison to healthy controls. Participants undergoing adjuvant radiotherapy for early stage breast cancer (stage 0, I or II) will be tested prior to commencing radiotherapy, matched healthy controls will also be tested. The Multi-dimensional Fatigue Inventory (MFI) will be used to assess various domains of fatigue. Participants will then complete a graded treadmill exercise test to volitional exhaustion, using a walking pace protocol. Peak oxygen uptake will be measured via expired gas analysis. Activity time and intensity will be recorded over seven days via an accelerometer based activity monitor (MTI Actigraph). Principal outcome measures for fatigue will be determined by the MFI scores across five domains, general, physical, and mental fatigue, reduced activity and reduced motivation.