Risk Factors for Lymphedema in a Prospective Breast Cancer Survivorship Study

Abstract

Breast cancer survival rates have been increasing during the past decade,¹ resulting in more long-term health consequences of breast cancer treatment. With incidence rates of approximately 26% 2 years after surgery, at least 400 000 women may be currently living with breast cancer–related lymphedema (BCRL),² the disruption of lymph transport leading to constant buildup of protein-rich fluid within the subcutaneous tissue of the arm, hand, and/or chest.^3-5 Possible risk factors include the degree of axillary dissection, radiation therapy, obesity at diagnosis, older age, postoperative fluid formation, and infection in the arm.⁶