Effect of Task Oriented Approach on Cancer Related Fatigue and Functional Capacity among Subjects with Blood Leukaemia

Abstract

Background: Cancer is the second leading cause of mortality worldwide.19.3 million new cases and 10.3 million
deaths from cancer were reported worldwide. Cancer-related fatigue (CFR) has a complicated aetiology. Fatigue
has a more detrimental influence on daily tasks and quality of life (QoL) than other ailments like pain or grief. This
study aimed to determine the effect of task oriented approach on cancer related fatigue and functional capacity
among subjects with blood leukaemia.
Methods: A randomised, clinical trial was conducted with a total of 30 blood cancer survivors. Subjects were
randomised into a radiation therapy group (RT group) (n=15) and non-radiation therapy group (NRT group)
(n=15). Both groups included a task oriented approach for 1section/day, 5 days /week for 4 weeks. The main
outcome was fatigue as assessed by the Brief fatigue inventory, Other evaluated outcomes were functional capacity
and Quality of life measured using 6 minute walk test and EORTC QLQ C30 (Version 3) . Data were collected at
baseline and post-intervention.
Result: There is a significant improvement in both group in cancer related fatigue after the intervention, two
groups, non-radiation group show much better improvement comparing to participants under radiation with a
mean difference of 3.4 in Brief Fatigue Inventory, 5.93 in 6 minute walk test, 16.46 in EORTC QLQ C30 (Version 3).
Conclusion: It has been concluded that Task oriented approach has better effect on reducing the fatigue caused by
cancer and enhancing the functional capacity, quality of life among blood leukaemia individuals. Participants who
are not under radiation therapy have better prognosis than participants under radiation therapy