New fatigue clinic for young people after cancer treatment

On September 27, a specialized outpatient clinic will open at the Princess Máxima Center for young people who experience severe fatigue after treatment. After a comprehensive evaluation, each young person will receive personalized recommendations on physical fitness, sleep, and mental health to improve quality of life.

Fatigue is a common complaint after cancer treatment and affects daily functioning. It often leads to difficulties with school, social activities, and sports. When fatigue affects more than 50% of school or activity days, it is considered severe fatigue.

Early intervention

Pediatrician Raphaële van Litsenburg explains that children who were more fatigued than average during treatment are nine times more likely to remain fatigued afterward. ‘Although we cannot change the disease itself, we can address factors such as physical fitness, sleep, and mental health.’

Multidisciplinary

The team, consisting of a pediatrician or pediatric oncologist, physical therapist, and psychologist, works closely together. Psychologist Esther van den Bergh says: ‘After a comprehensive evaluation, we create a personalized plan. For further treatment, young people are referred to local health care providers, with a follow-up appointment after six months.’ The outpatient clinic is intended for young people ages 10 through 18 who have completed treatment at the Máxima Center and for survivors through age 18 who visit the LATER clinic.

Scientifically grounded

The clinic uses evidence-based methods to reduce fatigue. Pediatric physical therapist Patrick van der Torre explains: ‘We recommend physical activity, relaxation techniques, and in some cases cognitive behavioral therapy. Medication for fatigue has not been shown to be effective. Our goal is to help children and young people regain both physical and mental energy. We do this under the name MO(V)E.’

The Princess Máxima Center Foundation raises funds for projects focused on quality of life, innovative care, and leading research. This includes the MO(V)E project, which is made possible in part by Beter Bed.