What is chemo-brain and what can I do about it?

What is chemo-brain and what can I do about it?

Did you know you can track changes in brain function in the OWise app? Cancer-related cognitive dysfunction (CRCD) can affect 75% (1) of cancer patients and 35% (2) of cancer survivors. Also known as ‘chemo brain’ or ‘chemo fog’, CRCD refers to changes and worsening in a range of brain functions including attention, learning, memory, processing speed and psychological wellbeing such as mood and anxiety. CRCD is not exclusive to chemotherapy, other treatments can also cause brain function problems. 1

Changes in severity of CRCD differs between individuals and within individuals across time and treatments. CRCD commonly increases as treatment dose increases (1). CRCD can begin before cancer treatment starts or well after treatment has ended. CRCD derived symptoms can have no effects on daily life or can be severely impairing, affecting daily life and psychological well being (1).

Read more on what causes cancer related changes in brain function in the What is Chemo-brain and what can I do about it blog. The blog also discusses management techniques including specialised therapies and offers practical tips. 

The OWise app offers many features to help manage changes in brain function such as storing appointments, voice recordings and pictures. You can also track your brain function with the OWise app daily and share changes with your care team!

Download the app for free here and regain control!

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References

(1) Jean-Pierre, Pascal. “Management of cancer-related cognitive dysfunction—conceptualization challenges and implications for clinical research and practice.” US oncology 6 (2010): 9.

(2) Janelsins, Michelle C., et al. “Prevalence, mechanisms, and management of cancer-related cognitive impairment.” International review of psychiatry 26.1 (2014): 102-113.