Awareness of lymphedema risk management behaviors and associated factors among breast cancer survivors: Results from a cross-sectional survey

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KĆ¼Ć§Ć¼k Resim

Tarih

2020

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Erişim Hakkı

info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess

Ɩzet

Aim: Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) is a disabling complication that can develop following breast cancer surgery months or even years after treatment ends. The effective management of BCRL requires adhering to simple risk-reduction strategies. The study aim was to assess the awareness and knowledge of lymphedema risk-management behaviors among breast cancer survivors and identify factors that affect it. Material and Methods: This study was conducted on 250 survivors of breast cancer. Demographic information, treatment details, time since surgery, duration and stage of lymphedema were recorded. Lymphedema education, knowledge about risk-minimization recommendations, and information sources were questioned using a survey. A multiple linear regression was used to identify predictors of lymphedema awareness.Results: Just over half (53.6%) of the patients had adequate lymphedema awareness (scoreā‰„8). BCRL was detected in 121 (48.4%) patients. Awareness scores varied by age, education level, body mass index, receiving chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and a previous BCRL treatment (all p0.05). Citing physiatrists as an information source reflected higher levels of awareness. Educational level and axillary lymph node dissection were positive predictors; time since surgery was the only negative predictor of lymphedema awareness. Conclusion: This study highlights the lack of lymphedema awareness among survivors of breast cancer. Accurate, timely, individualized training programs can improve knowledge and compliance of lymphedema risk management behaviors.

AƧıklama

Anahtar Kelimeler

Kaynak

Annals of Medical Research

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KĆ¼nye

Tolu, S., & Basim, P. (2021). Awareness of lymphedema risk management behaviors and associated factors among breast cancer survivors: Results from a cross-sectional survey . Annals of Medical Research