SELF-REPORTED MANAGEMENT OF BREAST CANCER-RELATED LYMPHOEDEMA

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Improvements in breast cancer treatment and early diagnosis are leading to increasing numbers of breast cancer survivors, many of whom are experiencing upper limb lymphoedema as a post-treatment outcome. Current management techniques of breast cancer-related lymphoedema produce uneven results, signifying a need for research in this area. AIMS: To assess the symptom management practices of breast cancer survivors experiencing cancer-related lymphoedema by identifying and quantifying self-care management practices. METHODS: The Lymphoedema Breast Cancer Questionnaire (LBCQ) was given to 40 breast cancer survivors with either self- or medical diagnosis of upper limb lymphoedema ipsilateral to the breast treated for cancer. RESULTS: Findings revealed three main themes: recommended management techniques, pharmaceutical treatments, and lay symptom management techniques. Further categorisation suggested that clusters of similar related symptoms (e.g. heaviness, aching, tenderness, and tightness/firmness) tend to be managed or not managed in similar ways. CONCLUSIONS: Healthcare professionals need to recognise the scope and diversity of self-management practices that breast cancer survivors choose in managing their lymphoedema symptoms. A critical next step is the rigorous evaluation of the effectiveness of these self-management modalities.

Figure 1

Structural model of post-breast cancer adjustment.

Figure 2

Self-reported management techniques for lymphoedema symptoms.

Figure 3

Symptoms addressed via self-reported recommended management techniques.

Figure 4

Symptoms addressed via self-reported pharmaceutical treatments.

Figure 5

Symptoms addressed via self-reported lay symptom management techniques.