Fatigue in the general population: associations to age, gender, socioeconomic status, and physical activity -a web-based survey

Abstract

Abstract Background: Though fatigue is common in the general population, most studies investigating its predictors are either outdated or under-sampled, which can lead to conflicting results. This study aims to describe the factors associated with fatigue in the general adult population. Methods: Using a web-based survey, 3008 participants were asked to self-report fatigue and physical activity status, using the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue (FACIT-F) questionnaire and the Godin-Shepard Leisure-Time Physical Activity Questionnaire (GSLTPAQ). Questions regarding gender, geographical location and socioeconomic items were also included. Results: Stepwise regression showed that the FACIT-F score was explained by age, gender and physical activity status (p<0.0001). Women had a highest level of fatigue than men (p<0.0001). Fatigue significantly decreased with age until 75 years, then increased again (p<0.0001). FACIT-F scores correlated positively with GSLTPA scores (r=0.075, p<0.0001). The physical activity status had a significant effect on fatigue (p<0.0001), i.e. insufficiently active respondents presented a significantly higher fatigue than moderately active and active respondents. There were significant effects of socio-professional categories (p<0.001) and standard of living (p<0.01) on fatigue. Conclusion: Fatigue is strongly associated with female gender, lower age and a lack of physical activity. Lower-income social-professional groups are also more likely to experience fatigue, while the retired seem to be more spared from fatigue than others. Since fatigue is associated with quality of life, it should be considered as a major public health issue, particularly in women, young and insufficiently active people.