Modifiable Risk Factors for Lymphedema in Breast Cancer Survivors
Abstract
In this study, 433 women with invasive breast cancer who had >5 axillary lymph nodes removed were followed for the development of arm lymphedema. Participants completed a baseline interview and subsequent interviews at 6-9 month intervals. Lymphedema was identified through self-report and through measurement of arm volume. Slightly more than half of participants reported arm swelling (n=228; 52.7%). Measured arm volume excess of >10% comparing the surgery-side to the opposite arm was identified in 73 women (16.9%). For both self-reported and measured lymphedema, risk was increased among women with greater body mass. For measured lymphedema only, risk was increased among current smokers and reduced among women in the highest category of recreational physical activity. Our results suggest that maintaining normal body mass, abstaining from smoking, and regular recreational physical activity should be investigated further as prevention strategies for lymphedema, particularly for lymphedema that progresses to more severe disease.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA475261
Entities
People
- Kathleen E. Malone
- Mary A. Rossing
Organizations
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center