Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of a Patient-Controlled Cognitive-Behavioral Intervention for the Pain, Fatigue, and Sleep Disturbance Symptom Cluster in Cancer

ContextPain, fatigue, and sleep disturbance commonly co-occur in patients receiving treatment for advanced cancer.ObjectivesA pilot randomized controlled trial was conducted to assess initial efficacy of a patient-controlled cognitive-behavioral (CB) intervention for the pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbance symptom cluster.MethodsEighty-six patients with advanced lung, prostate, colorectal, or gynecologic cancers receiving treatment at a comprehensive cancer center were stratified by recruitment clinics (chemotherapy and radiation therapy) and randomized to intervention or control groups. Forty-three patients were assigned to receive training in and use of up to 12 relaxation, imagery, or distraction exercises delivered via an MP3 player for two weeks during cancer treatment. Forty-three patients were assigned to a waitlist control condition for the same two week period. Outcomes included symptom cluster severity and overall symptom interference with daily life measured at baseline (Time 1) and two weeks later (Time 2).ResultsEight participants dropped out; 78 completed the study and were analyzed (36 intervention and 42 control subjects). Participants used the CB strategies an average of 13.65 times (SD = 6.98). Controlling for baseline symptom cluster severity and other relevant covariates, it was found that the symptom cluster severity at Time 2 was lower in the intervention group (MAdj = 2.99, SE = 0.29) than in the waitlist group (MAdj = 3.87, SE = 0.36), F(1, 65) = 3.57, P = 0.032. Symptom interference with daily life did not differ between groups. No significant adverse events were noted with the CB intervention.ConclusionFindings suggest that the CB intervention may be an efficacious approach to treating the pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbance symptom cluster. Future research is planned to confirm efficacy and test mediators and moderators of intervention effects.