Risk factors associated with lymphoedema among Chinese women after breast cancer surgery

Lymphoedema is recognized as a major sequela after breast cancer treatment. This study aims to estimate the risk factors of lymphoedema development after breast cancer treatment in Chinese women. A case-control study including 100 women with lymphoedema and 130 without lymphoedema, matched on the type of surgery. Lymphoedema was defined as breast cancer patients who complained of sensations such as swelling or heaviness. The logistic regression analysis was used to examine the relationship between lymphoedema and various factors. Findings from this study show that age, overweight or obesity and radiotherapy were associated with lymphoedema development. Oncologists and nurses should provide adequate information for breast cancer survivors, especially for those who are at high-risk of developing lymphoedema.