Time trend of breast cancer-related lymphedema according to body mass index
View abstract on PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.High body mass index (BMI) increases breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) incidence and slows recovery. Patients with high BMI require BCRL information pre-surgery and careful post-treatment follow-up.
Area Of Science
- Oncology
- Surgical Oncology
- Lymphedema Research
Background
- Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) is a common complication after breast cancer treatment.
- Body mass index (BMI) is a known risk factor for various health conditions, but its specific impact on BCRL development and progression requires further clarification.
Purpose Of The Study
- To investigate the influence of body mass index (BMI) on the incidence and temporal trends of breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL).
- To determine if BMI affects BCRL development irrespective of surgical procedures or radiotherapy.
Main Methods
- A prospective study involving 368 patients with operable breast cancer registered between November 2009 and July 2010.
- Assessment of lymphedema incidence at 1, 3, and 5 years post-surgery, stratified by BMI (obesity defined as BMI ≥25).
- Multivariate analysis to identify risk factors for BCRL, including BMI, axillary dissection, and radiotherapy.
Main Results
- High BMI was identified as a significant risk factor for BCRL, independent of axillary procedures or radiotherapy.
- Patients with high BMI exhibited a significantly higher incidence of new lymphedema at 1 year post-surgery compared to those with low BMI.
- Once developed, BCRL resolved more slowly in patients with high BMI, with 50% retaining edema at 5 years, versus 26.7% in low BMI patients at 3 years.
Conclusions
- Preoperative BMI significantly impacts both the occurrence and the long-term pattern of breast cancer-related lymphedema.
- Patients with elevated BMI should receive comprehensive information regarding BCRL risks before surgery and undergo meticulous post-treatment monitoring.
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