Women Cancer Survivors Face Greater Challenges with Fatigue and Depression

A pioneering national study has revealed that women cancer survivors experience notably higher rates of fatigue and depression compared to men — with increases of 69 percent and 58 percent, respectively. These findings were shared at the American Association for Cancer Research’s 2025 annual meeting, highlighting a significant gender disparity in post-cancer recovery. Led by Dr. Simo Du from NYC Health + Hospitals, the research analyzed survey responses from 1,555 survivors. Despite adjustments for age, race, and socioeconomic factors using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), the gender gap persists. 

Fatigue impacts 80 percent of patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation treatments, but women disproportionately feel the effects. Depression affects one in four survivors, compounding the challenge for women after their treatment concludes. Du’s team found these disparities correlate with reduced physical activity, leading to diminished long-term health outcomes. 

While cancer affects both sexes, its aftermath appears more burdensome for women. With advances in cancer treatments, ensuring a high quality of life for survivors has become a priority focus. Biological and societal factors further complicate women’s post-cancer struggles. Physically, women metabolize drugs more slowly, leading to extended side effects from treatments. Hormonal therapies used frequently in breast and ovarian cancers also heighten fatigue and mood disorders.

On the societal front, women often manage caregiving and household responsibilities even while recuperating, increasing their stress levels. “The burden isn’t just medical — it’s societal,” explained Dr. Scherezade Mama from MD Anderson Cancer Center, who did not participate in the study.

The Downward Spiral of Fatigue, Depression, and Inactivity

The interplay between fatigue and depression creates a vicious cycle, hampering recovery and reducing quality of life. Women who decrease physical activity due to fatigue are 86 percent more likely to experience slower recovery, and 65 percent more likely if depression is also present. However, moderate exercise, such as walking, can reduce fatigue risk by 50 percent. Although vigorous activity might not alleviate fatigue, it significantly lowers depression risk. “Exercise isn’t just beneficial; it’s prescriptive,” Du emphasized, noting how many female survivors in her clinic report fatigue affecting daily activities like grocery shopping, dressing, and showering.

Despite its prevalence, cancer-related fatigue is often underdiagnosed. Health professionals tend to prioritize other symptoms such as pain or appetite loss, which can overshadow the impact of fatigue. The study calls for routine screening and personalized interventions, particularly for women. “Awareness must start at diagnosis,” Du stressed. Programs like the American College of Sports Medicine’s Moving Through Cancer initiative offer exercise guidance, but access to these resources remains uneven, underscoring the need for sex-specific survivorship care.

“Survivors shouldn’t feel broken for struggling,” stated Dr. Carolyn Gotay, a researcher at the University of British Columbia uninvolved in Du’s study. Normalizing these challenges and enhancing support, through therapy and fitness referrals, could significantly improve recovery outcomes.

Although cancer survival rates continue to rise, the quality of life for survivors, especially women, often lags behind. As treatment options progress, post-care support must also evolve. “Living well after cancer isn’t a luxury; It’s the next frontier in care,” Du concluded.