Cancer-Related Sleep Wake Disturbances

Abstract

Objectives: To review the evidence on sleep wake disturbance (SWD) in adults with cancer and provide an up-to-date review of the prevalence, impact, causes, risk factors, assessment, options for treatment, and emerging science and technology.

Data sources: These include a synthesis of review articles and sources in electronic databases CONCLUSION: SWD is a prevalent and debilitating problem for millions of people living with cancer. If not addressed, SWD can negatively impact physical and psychological recovery from cancer. Multiple factors contribute to SWD among patients with cancer including a variety of physical symptoms related to cancer and its treatment including fatigue, anxiety, and other psychological symptoms. When SWD risk factors are predicted and clinical features evaluated, there are several treatment options and strategies available to help patients in a timely manner. There is a substantial body of evidence supporting the use of psychosocial interventions and behavioral treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTI). Growing evidence supports exercise and mindfulness-based stress reduction to diminish SWD. Sleep needs to be prioritized in cancer care, but dedicated effort and resources are needed to address the patient, clinician, institutional, and societal barriers to routine sleep evaluation and effective delivery of SWD interventions.

Implications for nursing practice: It is important for oncology providers to be educated regarding both pharmacologic and nonpharmacological treatments. Strategies for management of SWD in the context of cancer care delivery and future research are discussed in the context of the predictive preventive and personalized medicine framework (PPPM).

Keywords: Cancer; Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT); Difficulty falling asleep; Difficulty maintaining sleep; Insomnia; Nonrestorative sleep; Sleep-wake disturbance.