Suche
E-Revolution in Medicine: New hope against fatigue for cancer patients!
Find out more about Jody Geerts' PhD defense at the University of Twente on October 11, 2025, which focuses on cognitive bias modification to combat fatigue in breast cancer and kidney disease patients.
E-Revolution in Medicine: New hope against fatigue for cancer patients!
Research into improving the quality of life of patients with chronic diseases is becoming increasingly important. A current PhD project led by Jody Geerts at the University of Twente is dedicated to reducing fatigue in patients with breast cancer and chronic kidney disease. These diseases are often associated with overwhelming fatigue, which can greatly impact quality of life. [utwente.nl](https://www.utwente.nl/en/bms/events/2025/10/623551/phd-defence-jody-geerts-towards-vitality-cognitive-bia s-modification-training-to-foster-vitality-and-reduce-fatigue-in-patients-with-breast-cancer-and-chronic-kidney-disease) reports that existing therapies such as exercise programs and cognitive behavioral therapy are often not sufficient to effectively treat fatigue. Therefore, a new approach is being investigated using cognitive bias modification (CBM) as eHealth training.
Geerts and her team have specifically developed two applications aimed at boosting patients' self-image and vitality. The first, IVY, is a smartphone app for breast cancer patients, while the second, VitalMe, offers computer-based training for patients with chronic kidney disease. Both applications have received good acceptance in exploratory studies, even if the observed effects on fatigue themselves have not yet been significant.
Mixed results of training
The evaluation of the training revealed a mixed picture. Although patients and professionals generally reported positively about the training, there were also critical voices. As the pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov articles show, some patients have not experienced the desired benefit or improvement in their symptoms. In fact, one participant experienced an increase in fatigue during the weeks of training.
What was positive for many, however, was that the computer tasks were always entertaining and helped to increase awareness of their own fatigue. 61% of participants found the study entertaining, and a third of patients had complaints about the repetition of the tasks. Nevertheless, 83% of patients who completed the study were able to complete the tasks independently without assistance.
Challenges in implementation
A major obstacle is the participants' computer skills. Many patients felt overwhelmed and were unable to take part in the study due to a lack of digital skills. aerzteblatt.de also emphasizes that individually tailored therapy for chronic fatigue brings great improvements can be achieved as long as it takes into account the specific needs and abilities of the patient. People who suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) often feel that they are not taken seriously and often have a long journey of suffering behind them.
Various treatment methods, including psychotherapeutic approaches, can help relieve symptoms. It is important to adapt the therapy individually in order to support the patient in coping with their illness and to promote the development of regular activities.
Jody Geerts' project shows the importance of developing creative and innovative approaches to treating fatigue. Even if the initial results are not clearly positive, an important step is still being taken towards a better quality of life for people with chronic illnesses.