FiX study

Examination of prevalence, severity, and state of screening and treatment

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Investigators

PI: Dr. Martina Schmidt

Co-PI: Prof. Dr. Karen Steindorf

Abstract

After a cancer treatment, beyond therapy success the quality of life is of great importance. Therefore, we want to advance research and development of patient-oriented offers and treatments in order to alleviate common side effects such as fatigue (extreme exhaustion) and to improve quality of life of cancer survivors.

The FiX study is an important step in this regard. In Germany, guidelines for the treatment of cancer-related fatigue as well as systematically collected comparative data on the prevalence and severity of fatigue in the various types of cancer are still missing.

The aim of the study is therefore to identify existing problems as well as patient groups with a particularly high need for action regarding fatigue.

A hand holds a pen, filling out a printed questionnaire with multiple checkbox options. The form appears to be related to a study on movement and cancer prevention, indicating that it gathers participant responses. The background is neutral and the focus is on the writing action.
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In cooperation with the Epidemiological Cancer Registry of Baden-Württemberg, patients who received the first diagnosis of cancer one to two years ago are contacted and asked to take part in a short survey. A total of 2508 participants would have included (each for the 15 most common tumor types). Based on questionnaires information on characteristics and treatment of cancer-related fatigue as well as quality of life were collected.

A follow-up survey is planned after one to two years to investigate the longer-term problems and needs of cancer survivors. The results of the study will contribute to the development of patient-centered treatments for cancer-related fatigue.

Current status

Recruitment for the FiX study started in January 2018 and until July 2019 and have been published in 2 publications.
Recruitment for the follow-up started in December 2020.

Publications

Schmidt ME, Bergbold S, Hermann S, Steindorf K:Knowledge, perceptions, and management of cancer-related fatigue: the patients' perspective. Supportive Care in Cancer, 29(4), 2063-2071 DOI 10.1007/s00520-020-05686-5

Schmidt ME, Hermann S, Arndt V, Steindorf K: Prevalence and severity of long-term physical, emotional, and cognitive fatigue across 15 different cancer entities. Cancer Medicine. 2020; 9:8053–8061 https://doi.org/10.1002/cam4.3413

Registration

ClinicakTrials.gov: NCT03318224

Contact

  • Martina Schmidt

    Dr. Martina Schmidt

    Senior Scientist

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