Lymphoedema care of breast cancer patients in a breast care clinic: a survey of knowledge and health practice

Lymphoedema, an accumulation of protein-rich fluid in interstitial tissue, is a well-recognised life-altering result of breast cancer treatment. With the goal of studying the prevalence and management of lymphoedema after bre ast cancer therapy, 171 patients were invited to complete a self-administer ed questionnaire following completion of treatment for breast cancer. The s urvey revealed that 82.5% of patients knew they were at risk of developing lymphoedema. However, the level of knowledge about preventive care in lymph oedema was inadequate, with a mean score of 4.07 out of a full mark of 10 ( SD=2.35, mode=2). A substantial proportion (45.6%; n=78) of respondents rep orted that they had experienced lymphoedema and subsequently developed mult iple sites of lymphoedema, but only 34.7% (n=26) had been referred for phys iotherapy. The study also revealed that patients who had received the combi ned regimen of mastectomy, lymph node dissection, radiotherapy and chemothe rapy were at a higher risk of developing lymphoedema (X-2=6.305, P=0.043). Interestingly, it was found that nurses were the most frequently cited reso urce for information, but the least consulted professionals for discussion on treatment. It is apparent from our patient survey that there is a lack o f knowledge on lymphoedema care amongst breast cancer patients. In order to improve patients' level of knowledge and their awareness of lymphoedema ca re, the provision for systematic and comprehensive patient education, inclu ding management protocols for lymphoedema, needs to be addressed. Education and training, will be essential components of efforts to ensure appropriat e care for lymphoedema patients.