Recognizing severe fatigue and decline in quality of life in Hodgkin lymphoma survivors

Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) is common in young adults and considered curable in most patients. Young HL survivors (HLS) are at risk of long-term adverse effects. Our study aimed to assess various fatigue and quality of life (QoL) complaints, and their correlations with treatment. Self-reported questionnaires assessing fatigue (MFI-20) and QoL-related issues (EORTC-QOL-C-30) were used to examine HLS aged 18–65 who completed first-line chemotherapy ± radiotherapy (RT) and were in complete remission for at least six months post-therapy. The cohort included 120 HLS (median age 32 years), assessed between 6 months and 15 years post-treatment. About 28% presented with severe fatigue and severely reduced QoL. Higher fatigue levels were associated with four cycles of the ABVD + RT. Young HLS experience high levels of persistent physical fatigue, emotional distress, and cognitive decline that are insufficiently investigated. Assessment of these complaints is essential and further investigation may provide tailored solutions for a better QoL for HLS.