Self-management of oncology-related lymphoedema : patients’ perceptions and compliance

Abstract

The aim of this research is to investigate the patients’ perception and compliance towards self-management of oncology related lymphoedema. Lymphoedema following breast cancer treatment is a debilitating chronic condition. With an increase in breast cancer incidence and improved survival rates, research about the long-term management of oncology-related lymphoedema is crucial to support a good Quality of Life (QOL). Management of oncology- related lymphoedema is divided into two phases. The first phase is the intensive phase known as Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) followed by the second phase which puts emphasis on self-management of this condition. Lymphoedema patients attending the lymphoedema clinic at Sir Anthony Mamo Oncology Centre (SAMOC) and who have completed at least one course of CDT, were recruited in this study. This research adopted a qualitative approach using one-to-one, in-depth interviews. Findings were analysed using the thematic analysis approach. The results obtained indicate that the level of adherence varied between different activities of the self-management programme. The highest level of adherence was recorded towards skin care (66.7%), while the lowest level of adherence was recorded towards upper-limb exercises (44.4%). Findings from this research suggest that the patients’ perceived barriers towards self-management of lymphoedema decreases the overall adherence. The three main barriers include personal, social and healthcare factors. Information gathered through this research including the patients’ overall adherence and the patients’ perceived barriers could shed more light on the importance of continuous support in managing long-term and chronic conditions. The suggestions put forward from this research study aim to lower the patients’ risk of developing complications to the lymphoedematous limb and ultimately to decrease the demand of oncology-related lymphoedema on the healthcare services.