An Investigation of Light Therapy for Cancer-related Fatigue (The LITE Study)

A Randomized Controlled Trial of Light Therapy on Biomarkers, Sleep/Wake Activity, and Quality of Life in Individuals With Post-treatment Cancer-related Fatigue

Cancer-related fatigue is one of the most common and distressing symptoms associated with a cancer diagnosis.Fatigue related to cancer often appears before a diagnosis, worsens during treatment, and lasts for years after treatment in up to 35% of patients. Despite the long-term effects of cancer-related fatigue, the treatment options available are not always appropriate or helpful for all patients.Light therapy is an effective treatment for other disorders related to fatigue. The purpose of the study is to investigate the role of light therapy on quality of life, sleep patterns, and physical measures of immune function and stress hormones in individuals with post-treatment cancer-related fatigue.

Inclusion Criteria:

• English speaking
• Non metastatic cancer
• At least 3 months post chemotherapy/radiation treatment (hormone treatment ok)
• Meets criteria for cancer-related fatigue

Exclusion Criteria:

• Under 18 years of age
• Presence of a sleep disorder other than insomnia or hypersomnia
• Shift work
• Presence of an Axis-I psychiatric condition
• Presence of a medical condition that may impact levels of fatigue
• Presence of conditions contraindicated to the use of light therapy or photosensitizing medications
• Randomization refusal