Breast Cancer Survivor Perceptions & Actions on Lymphoedema Prevention
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Exploring Breast Cancer Survivors Perceptions and Actions on Lymphoedema Prevention Recommendations Utilising Focus Groups
IRAS ID
152911
Contact name
Melanie Thomas
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Swansea university
Research summary
Lymphoedema is an incurable and progressive condition that affects at least 3.8 per 1000 of the population in Wales. It is a chronic swelling due to lymphatic system failure and occurs when the lymphatic system is damaged by surgery, tumour, radiotherapy, trauma, infection or inflammation. Lymphoedema can affect individuals physically, psychologically and socially. It has a significant impact on quality of life.
Breast cancer is one of the most common causes of lymphoedema ranging from a reported incidence rate of 9-45%. Lymphoedema is second of the most feared consequences of breast cancer treatment following recurrence.
All breast cancer patients prior to surgery are warned of the potential risk of developing lymphoedema. Patients are given lymphoedema preventative recommendations either verbally or as information leaflets. Some literature given to patients suggests do and don’ts of over twenty recommendations.
After completing a literature review of these recommendations it transpires that advice given is based on clinical hearsay not robust scientific evidenced research. Additionally, the most evidenced way of reducing risk of lymphoedema – maintaining a healthy body mass index is not suggested. Existing recommendations impact on a person’s quality of life, suggesting changing hobbies and activities of daily living like cleaning, cooking and caring.
The effect these recommendations have on breast cancer survivor’s life, relationships and work is absent, leaving a gap in the research. This study will address this void finding out from survivors their views and perspectives of the impact of these recommendations have on daily living and how they perceive weight management is the most reliable way of reducing risk. This study will utilise focus groups exploring views from breast cancer survivors with or without lymphoedema. Outcomes will provide evidence based findings to inform service delivery for future breast cancer patients in preventing lymphedema nationally and internationally.REC name
Wales REC 6
REC reference
14/WA/1027
Date of REC Opinion
24 Jun 2014
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion