Janusz Doś1, Piotr Gutowski, Magdalena Górska-Doś. 1. Zamiejscowy Wydział Kultury Fizycznej w Gorzowie Wlkp. Akademii Wychowania Fizycznego w Poznaniu ul. Estkowskiego 13, 66-400 Gorzów Wlkp.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Epidemiologic data for the last decade reveal increasing incidence of female breast cancer in Poland. One of the serious therapeutic consequences in breast cancer is secondary lymphedema of the upper extremity which significantly affects the quality of life. The aim of this study was to assess the incidence and to identify risk factors of lymphedema after breast cancer surgery. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Lymphedema and its severity were studied on the basis of anamnesis, clinical examination, and optoelectronic measurement of limb volume. The study group consisted of 246 women after breast cancer surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Lymphedema was observed in 40.6% of women. The most important risk factors for lymphedema include previous infections, radiotherapy, and obesity.
INTRODUCTION: Epidemiologic data for the last decade reveal increasing incidence of female breast cancer in Poland. One of the serious therapeutic consequences in breast cancer is secondary lymphedema of the upper extremity which significantly affects the quality of life. The aim of this study was to assess the incidence and to identify risk factors of lymphedema after breast cancer surgery. MATERIAL AND METHODS:Lymphedema and its severity were studied on the basis of anamnesis, clinical examination, and optoelectronic measurement of limb volume. The study group consisted of 246 women after breast cancer surgery. CONCLUSIONS:Lymphedema was observed in 40.6% of women. The most important risk factors for lymphedema include previous infections, radiotherapy, and obesity.