Men's Perceptions of Non-Cancer Related Lymphoedema: A Qualitative Diary Study

Area of Science:

• Men's Health
• Chronic Illness Management
• Psychosocial Aspects of Health

Background:

• Lymphoedema, a chronic condition from lymphatic dysfunction, causes persistent swelling affecting many men.
• Men's experiences with lymphoedema, particularly concerning masculine identity, are under-researched.
• Existing frameworks like Health, Illness, Men, and Masculinities (HIMM) can illuminate these experiences.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore how men living with non-cancer-related lymphoedema navigate their condition.
• To understand the interplay between lymphoedema, masculine identity, and self-management strategies.
• To identify how societal expectations of masculinity influence men's health behaviors and experiences.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative narrative inquiry with 12 men experiencing non-cancer-related lymphoedema.
• Utilized solicited diaries over a two-week period for data collection.
• Employed thematic and structural analyses to identify key themes and patterns.

Main Results:

• Identified 'vulnerability' as an overarching theme, with subthemes of 'disruption' and 'routine for control/continuity'.
• Men reported concealment, emotional strain, and social withdrawal due to stigma and misunderstanding.
• Routines were developed to foster autonomy, preserve identity, and express competence, with varied expressions of masculinity.

Conclusions:

• Men negotiate chronic illness identity by adapting self-management and coping strategies.
• Masculinities significantly shape the lived experience of lymphoedema for men.
• There is a critical need for gender-sensitive healthcare approaches that acknowledge these influences.