Digital Self Care training for People with Cancer-Related Fatigue - A randomized clinical trial

Cancer-related fatigue is one of the most common and distressing symptoms experienced by people living with cancer. This project explores whether digital training in self care techniques can reduce cancer-related fatigue, using approaches grounded in digital health and integrative oncology. By combining Mind Body Medicine with digital health tools, this study aims to provide evidence for scalable approaches that support people living with cancer.

Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) affects many individuals during and after cancer treatment, often limiting quality of life. Research suggests that self care methods such as acupressure and mindfulness-based techniques may help reduce fatigue when used regularly in routine care. However, access to standardized instruction can be limited. Delivering these techniques through digital trainings may offer a practical way for patients to learn and self-administer them.

The primary aim of this study is to determine whether the digitally delivered self care techniques improve fatigue after six weeks compared to not using any self care technique. The project also investigates whether participants benefit more when they are randomized  to the intervention that aligns with their personal preferences.

In this randomized clinical trial, we plan to include 290 adults who have experienced cancer within the past five years, regardless of cancer type, location, or stage. Eligible participants must have clinically relevant cancer-related fatigue, measured by a score of at least 12 points on the PROMIS Fatigue subscale. After enrollment, participants are randomized to one of three groups: acupressure, mindfulness-based technique, or a waitlist control group with access to the intervention of their choice  after six weeks.

The primary endpoint of the study is change in cancer-related fatigue, assessed after six weeks using the Brief Fatigue Inventory (BFI). Secondary outcomes include changes in slepp problems, health related Quality of Life, distress and adherence.Mind Body Medicine self care techniques delivered via digital training.

The digital training, which serves as the intervention in the  trials, is structured into six weekly modules guiding users step-by-step in  learning the self care techniques. It has been developed through a user-centered process, guided by an implementation science framework, to ensure the trainings’ relevance, feasibility, and integration into routine oncology care.

The  digital learning format ensures consistent, high-quality instruction and allows individuals to practice at their own pace. By integrating behaviour change techniques, the training also aims to facilitate the incorporation of self care techniques into the participants’ daily routine.

Krebsforschung Schweiz KFS-5723-02-2023

Thomae, A.V., Brüllmann, S., Zhang, L. et al. Developing Self Care Digital Trainings for Cancer Patients: An Implementation Research Project with Broad Stakeholder Engagement. J Canc Educ (2026).

https://doi.org/10.1007/s13187-026-02861-w

• Claudia Witt (Principal Investigator)
• Jürgen Barth (Contact)