1
|
Scerri J, Cilia Vincenti S, Galea M, Cefai C, Grech P, Sammut A, Attard C. Hit by the wave: The experiences of adult males living with lymphoedema. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0304577. [PMID: 38820358 PMCID: PMC11142542 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Lymphoedema arises when the lymphatic system has been damaged and may occur secondary to cancer treatment. While much of the extant literature focuses on quality of life in females with breast cancer- related lymphoedema, this study explores the impact of living with lymphoedema secondary to cancer treatment in males. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 male participants, aged between 50 to 85 years. Data collected were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. The super-ordinate theme 'Hit by a wave' encompasses the profound impact of lymphoedema on the participants' quality of life. The males expressed body image concerns and struggled with feelings of frustration, anger, anxiety and depression. Physical changes such as weight increase, disrupted sleep, pain, swollen genitals and urinary difficulties were experienced. Changes in lifestyle were also expressed, such as an increased dependence on carers; work-related and role changes. Nevertheless, many participants endorsed the need to focus on the present moment and expressed a heightened appreciation of authenticity in life. By understanding the unique narratives of males with lymphoedema, health care practitioners together with patients can formulate care plans that truly resonate with the needs, concerns, and experiences of males living with lymphoedema.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Josianne Scerri
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Mental Health, University of Malta, Msida, Malta
- Faculty of Health, Science, Social Care and Education, Kingston University, Surrey, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Cilia Vincenti
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Mental Health, University of Malta, Msida, Malta
| | - Michael Galea
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Mental Health, University of Malta, Msida, Malta
| | - Carmel Cefai
- Centre for Resilience and Socio-Emotional Health, University of Malta, Msida, Malta
| | - Paulann Grech
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Mental Health, University of Malta, Msida, Malta
| | - Alexei Sammut
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Mental Health, University of Malta, Msida, Malta
| | - Christie Attard
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Mental Health, University of Malta, Msida, Malta
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
González-Fernández L, Romero-Morales C, Martínez-Pascual B, Río-González A, Cerezo-Téllez E, López-Martín I. Breast cancer survivors suffering from lymphedema: What really do affect to corporeality/body image? A qualitative study. Breast Cancer Res 2024; 26:47. [PMID: 38486203 PMCID: PMC10941543 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-024-01806-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer-related lymphedema is currently one of the most serious complications that most affect the quality of life of women undergoing breast cancer. The aim of this study was to explore in-depth the experience of women who suffer from lymphoedema after breast cancer and how does this condition affect corporeality, with no judgements. For this purpose, a qualitative methodology was followed. In-depth interviews, interviewer's field notes and participants' letters were used for data collection. The participants were twenty Spanish women with lymphoedema after overcome a breast cancer in the past. Healthcare specialists with experience in the topic were also included. Results showed 2 main categories: "From cancer to lymphedema, another disease another disease" and "Potential for transition and transformation towards a new way of life". As a conclusion, the difficulty in accessing adequate treatment, the need for greater awareness of lymphedema and the importance of the emotional and psychological dimension of this chronic disease. Highlighting the attitudes that these women develop for self-care and the concept of new corporeality. After breast cancer, women with lymphedema experience a drastic change that affects all areas of their lives. The adaptation process, and the search for resources and aid, play a fundamental role in overcoming this process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Carlos Romero-Morales
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Villaviciosa de Odón, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Angela Río-González
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Villaviciosa de Odón, Madrid, Spain
- Asociación Española de Linfedema y Lipedema, AEL, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ester Cerezo-Téllez
- Neuromusculoskeletal Physical Therapy in Stages of Life Research Group (FINEMEV), Department of Nursing and Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad de Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - Inmaculada López-Martín
- Escuela de Enfermería Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria - Hospital Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (IIS-FJD, UAM), Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Cooper-Stanton GR, Gale N, Sidhu M, Allen K. A qualitative systematic review and meta-aggregation of the experiences of men diagnosed with chronic lymphoedema. J Res Nurs 2022; 27:704-732. [DOI: 10.1177/17449871221088791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lymphoedema is a chronic condition that is estimated to affect up to four people per 1000 of the UK population with this increasing with age. Men account for up to 20% of lymphoedema service caseloads with research focussing upon women affected. Aims To retrieve primary qualitative research on the experiences of men with chronic lymphoedema. Methods A qualitative review was undertaken using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) meta-aggregation method. A search strategy was applied to 12 databases, from inception to February 2021, with 22 studies identified and appraised. The findings were extracted and synthesised via the JBI approach. Results Four synthesised findings were identified: (1) The ‘New Norm’, how diagnosis led to men being faced with a ‘new version’ of themselves; (2) ‘Journey into the Unknown’ relates to the unforeseen diagnosis of the condition; (3) ‘Access’ – challenge in receiving a diagnosis, and support; and (4) ‘Personhood’ – the impact of the condition upon external constructs and relationships. Conclusions Men are faced with similar challenges as women coupled with societal expectations with respect to gender identity and expression. This leads to those wishing to engage with men to adopt ‘gender-based tailoring’ within healthcare services, information and support.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Garry R Cooper-Stanton
- Doctoral Researcher/Lecturer, Health Services Management, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Nicola Gale
- Professor, Health Services Management, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Manbinder Sidhu
- Research Fellow, Health Services Management, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Kerry Allen
- Senior Lecturer, Health Services Management, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ajimi A, Matsushita M, Mishima K, Haga N, Fujiwara S, Ozono K, Kubota T, Kitaoka T, Imagama S, Kitoh H. Inconvenience and adaptation in Japanese adult achondroplasia and hypochondroplasia: A cross-sectional study. Clin Pediatr Endocrinol 2022; 31:18-24. [PMID: 35002064 PMCID: PMC8713058 DOI: 10.1297/cpe.2021-0043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The health-related quality of life is reduced in patients with achondroplasia (ACH) and
hypochondroplasia (HCH); however, the detailed inconveniences in the daily living and
individual adaptations have not been elucidated. This study aimed to evaluate the
inconvenience and adaptation in patients with ACH/HCH. A cross-sectional study was
conducted in patients with ACH/HCH aged 20 yr or older. Questionnaires were sent to 567
patients (described 86) with a medical history at the co-authors’ institutions or who were
registered at the patients’ association with ACH in Japan. The questionnaire included a
free description format for the inconveniences and adaptations in daily living; a content
analysis was performed. The recorded inconveniences included 148 physical, 84 mental, and
52 social problems. Patients who underwent spine surgery had significantly more recorded
physical problems than those who did not (p < 0.05). Pain and numbness were
significantly higher in patients aged ≥ 50 yr (p < 0.05). The 160 and 1 adaptations
were for physical and social problems, respectively. No patient adaptation was found for
mental health problems. Individual adaptations by ACH/HCH patients can improve only some
aspects of physical and social problems. Multilateral social support is needed to resolve
patients’ issues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akiko Ajimi
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Mejiro University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Masaki Matsushita
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Kenichi Mishima
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Nobuhiko Haga
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, the University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sayaka Fujiwara
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, the University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Keiichi Ozono
- Department of Pediatrics, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takuo Kubota
- Department of Pediatrics, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Taichi Kitaoka
- Department of Pediatrics, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Shiro Imagama
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kitoh
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Aichi Children's Health and Medical Center, Aichi, Japan.,Department of Comprehensive Pediatric Medicine, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
GÜL A, AYGİN D. Meme Kanseri Cerrahisi Sonrası Lenfödem ve Uçak Seyahati. İSTANBUL GELIŞIM ÜNIVERSITESI SAĞLIK BILIMLERI DERGISI 2021. [DOI: 10.38079/igusabder.987931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
|
6
|
It was just mind blowing to be honest: a qualitative phenomenological study exploring cancer survivor's experiences of indocyanine green lymphography used to inform lymphedema therapy management. Support Care Cancer 2021; 29:6389-6397. [PMID: 33885963 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-021-06229-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE A diagnosis of secondary lymphedema following cancer treatment can necessitate lifelong therapy. Indocyanine green (ICG) lymphography is a technique for visualising lymphatics to enable individualised lymphedema diagnosis, staging and therapy prescription. The participant experience of undergoing the procedure and the impact of imaging findings on lymphedema management is unknown. This study aimed to explore participant's experiences of ICG lymphography to inform cancer-related lymphedema therapy. METHODS A qualitative phenomenological study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with 17 adult participants who had undergone ICG lymphography for stage 0 to 2 upper or lower limb secondary cancer-related lymphedema (International Society of Lymphology, Lymphology 53(1):3-10, 2020). RESULTS Seventeen participants were included in the study ranging in age from 36 to 78 years (M = 53.8 years), the majority had a primary diagnosis of breast cancer (N = 7) or melanoma (N = 7). Three overarching themes emerged. Firstly, describing the experience of the ICG lymphography procedure. Secondly, the new knowledge explained symptoms and tailored treatment. Participants reflected on how seeing their lymphatic system helped in understanding about their lymphedema symptoms and guided changes towards more individualised lymphedema management. The final theme described the internal impact of self-knowledge, which included impacts of the new information on empowerment and motivation to self-manage participant's condition as well as their feelings. CONCLUSIONS ICG lymphography had beneficial impacts on participant's understanding of their lymphedema symptoms and often led to changes in management, positive outcomes in response to management changes and peace of mind about management plans, leading to feeling more empowered to self-manage their condition.
Collapse
|
7
|
Exploring the Physical Therapy Experience Among People Living With Lymphedema: A Biopsychosocial Perspective. REHABILITATION ONCOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1097/01.reo.0000000000000228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
8
|
Arikan Dönmez A, Kuru Alici N, Borman P. Lived Experiences for Supportive Care Needs of Women with Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema: A Phenomenological Study. Clin Nurs Res 2020; 30:799-808. [PMID: 32955348 DOI: 10.1177/1054773820958115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This descriptive phenomenological study was conducted to explore the lived experiences for supportive care needs of women with breast cancer-related lymphedema. Purposive sampling was used to recruit participants. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted to collect data. Thematic analysis method was used for data analysis. Data saturation was achieved after interviewing 19 participants. The study was divided into four main themes and nine subthemes: physical (caused by difficulties in performing household chores, limitations in performing self-care activities, and challenges in shopping), psychosocial (being addicted to someone else in daily life, uncertainty about the future, social, and religious support), healthcare systems and information (attention from healthcare professionals, education and lifestyle advices, and access to healthcare sources), and financial supportive care needs. Women experience various SCNs in their daily lives. Provision of supportive care from both family members or others and healthcare professionals could ease the daily lives, improve physical, and psychosocial well-being.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Pınar Borman
- Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey.,Ankara City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Río-González Á, Molina-Rueda F, Palacios-Ceña D, Alguacil-Diego IM. Comparing the experience of individuals with primary and secondary lymphoedema: A qualitative study. Braz J Phys Ther 2020; 25:203-213. [PMID: 32518025 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjpt.2020.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lymphoedema is a chronic condition that has significant detrimental impact on patients' quality of life. Secondary lymphoedema often results from anti-tumour treatment, in contrast to primary lymphoedema which is the result of genetic abnormalities that leads to an abnormal development of the lymphatic system. OBJECTIVE To describe and compare the experience of individuals with primary and secondary lymphoedema. METHODS A total of 19 patients (mean ± standard deviation age: 56.7 ± 16.2 years), 8 with primary and 11 with secondary lymphoedema, participated in this qualitative phenomenological study. Purposeful sampling method was applied. We recruited participants from specialised lymphoedema units of two physical therapy clinics and the Lymphoedema Patient Association in Spain. Data collection methods included unstructured and semi-structured interviews. An inductive thematic analysis was used. RESULTS The findings suggest differences between the experience of living with primary or secondary lymphoedema. Also, those with lower extremity lymphoedema have more pain, fatigue, and functional limitations. Three primary themes emerged: "Emotional challenge", "Adapting your life to a new situation," and "lymphoedema management". CONCLUSIONS The experience of living with lymphoedema involves aspects of fear, suffering, coping, and management of the disease and differs between secondary and primary causes. However, it seems to be more dependent on its location than its cause.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ángela Río-González
- School of Sport Science and Physical Therapy, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Villaviciosa de Odón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Molina-Rueda
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Domingo Palacios-Ceña
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Research Group of Humanities and Qualitative Research in Health Science of Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (Hum&QRinHS), Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Isabel Mª Alguacil-Diego
- Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Effectiveness and safety of a product containing diosmin, coumarin, and arbutin (Linfadren®) in addition to complex decongestive therapy on management of breast cancer-related lymphedema. Support Care Cancer 2018; 27:1471-1480. [DOI: 10.1007/s00520-018-4514-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|