Colorectal cancer-related fatigue: can the mind make a difference?

By Ana Espino | Published on March 31, 2026 | 3 min read


Colorectal cancer (CRC) is among the most common cancers worldwide. Despite therapeutic advances, a large proportion of patients develop cancer-related fatigue (CRF), a multidimensional symptom affecting physical, emotional, and cognitive functioning. This fatigue often persists after treatment and significantly impacts quality of life and survival.  

Pharmacological treatments remain limited and are associated with adverse effects. Non-pharmacological approaches, such as physical activity, may face adherence challenges. In this context, psychosocial interventions are emerging as a promising alternative, targeting behaviors, emotions, and coping mechanisms.  

This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials, published in 2026 in Supportive Care in Cancer, aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions on CRF in patients with CRC, as well as their effects on anxiety and depression.  

Can psychosocial approaches reduce fatigue?  

The analysis included 9 randomized controlled trials involving 1,426 patients with CRC. Interventions were categorized as psycho-behavioral approaches, psychotherapies, and yoga. Outcomes were assessed at short-, medium-, and long-term follow-up.  

The results showed a significant reduction in fatigue in the short term, maintained in the medium term and more modest in the long term. Heterogeneity was high in the short term but decreased over time, suggesting a stabilization of effects.  

Subgroup analyses indicated that psycho-behavioral interventions were the most effective, particularly those combining emotional expression with behavioral strategies. In contrast, standalone psychotherapies and yoga did not demonstrate significant effects on fatigue.  

Regarding associated symptoms, a significant reduction in depressive symptoms was observed in the short and medium term. However, no significant effects were found for anxiety, despite a favorable trend.  

These effects may be explained by improvements in health behaviors—such as physical activity, sleep, and diet—as well as by changes in cognitive and emotional processes involved in fatigue.  

Toward a comprehensive approach to fatigue management  

Cancer-related fatigue in colorectal cancer remains a major clinical challenge, insufficiently addressed by current approaches. This study sought to clarify the role of psychosocial interventions in its management.  

The findings suggest that these interventions—particularly psycho-behavioral approaches—can achieve a significant and sustained reduction in fatigue, along with beneficial effects on depressive symptoms.  

However, limitations include substantial heterogeneity, a low-to-moderate level of evidence, and a limited number of studies, especially in the long term.  

Although further large-scale trials are needed to confirm these results, they highlight the potential of psychosocial interventions as a complementary therapeutic strategy. In the future, their integration into care pathways could enable a more comprehensive, personalized, and effective management of cancer-related fatigue in colorectal cancer.   

Read next: Colorectal cancer: is the risk on the plate?

About the author – Ana Espino
PhD in Immunology, specialized in Virology  
As a scientific writer, Ana is passionate about bridging the gap between research and real-world impact. With expertise in immunology, virology, oncology, and clinical studies, she makes complex science clear and accessible. Her mission: to accelerate knowledge sharing and empower evidence-based decisions through impactful communication.