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

Abstract

Aim: Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) is a disabling complication that can develop following breast cancer surgery monthsor even years after treatment ends. The effective management of BCRL requires adhering to simple risk-reduction strategies. Thestudy aim was to assess the awareness and knowledge of lymphedema risk-management behaviors among breast cancer survivorsand 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-minimizationrecommendations, and information sources were questioned using a survey. A multiple linear regression was used to identifypredictors of lymphedema awareness.Results: Just over half (53.6%) of the patients had adequate lymphedema awareness (score≥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 previousBCRL treatment (all p