TOPS trial: Treatment of Post-Cancer Fatigue Study

Some people have problems with a profound lack of energy (fatigue) after finishing cancer treatment known as post cancer fatigue. They also commonly have difficulties in concentration, sleep disturbance and low mood. The experts in the Lifestyle Clinic have developed an exercise and support program for people with post cancer fatigue which will now be evaluated in a trial. Who are the clinicians? The exercise physiologist helps with: - Activity pacing - helping to better manage day to day symptoms and activity levels; - Graded exercise therapy - increasing capacity for activity to improve health. The clinical psychologist helps with: - Memory, concentration and attention problems; - Sleep issues ; - Anxiety, mood and coping. What is involved? Those eligible will be randomized into either a simple education group or an intervention group. Regardless of what group you are allocated to you will be interviewed and asked to complete a series of questionnaires about your health and lifestyle at the beginning, at 12weeks and then 3 months later. Participation is free of charge. The education group will receive a booklet describing the principles of the treatment program and will meet with the clinicians to ensure they understand the plan. They will provide clear advice on how to implement these principles yourself at home over the 12 weeks. Those in the intervention group will receive this booklet but will also participate in regular sessions implementing the 12 week program. What is the 12 week intervention? The 12 week program is run by an exercise physiologist and clinical psychologist, designed to better manage your fatigue and related symptoms and to increase your day to day function. The program includes: - Assessment of symptoms and activity patterns with an exercise physiologist. - Assessment of your well-being with a clinical psychologist The treatment program is ‘home-based’ and is designed to suit your individual needs and current level of activity. This includes fortnightly consults either in the Clinic or by phone with your clinicians to review your progress. What happens after the trial if I get randomized into the education group? If the intervention proves to be effective and you were allocated to the education group you will be offered the intervention without cost to you. Who can participate? - People who have completed adjuvant treatment (chemotherapy, radiotherapy or hormonal treatment) for breast or bowel cancer, who have symptoms of unexplained fatigue reducing activity levels. - People who have finished treatment at least 3 months ago but less than 12 months ago. -Aged at least 18 years