Body image and sexuality concerns in women with breast cancer-related lymphedema: a cross-sectional study

Purpose (1) To determine, in women with breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL), the frequency, intensity and distress of body image and sexuality concerns. (2) To examine relationships between body image and sexuality concerns, and lymphedema, personal and cancer treatment factors. Method Women with BCRL (n = 64) completed the Lymphedema Symptom Intensity and Distress Scale - Arm (LSIDS-A), which focuses on the intensity and distress of a range of lymphedema symptoms. They also underwent a lymphedema assessment. Responses to eight questions from the LSIDS-A regarding sexuality, body image and intimate relationships were considered. Frequency of responses was tabulated. Multiple linear regressions were used to determine if specific factors were related to higher intensity and distress scores associated with body image and sexuality issues. Results Body image and sexuality concerns were common (48%, 23% respectively). Participants reported a range (0-10) of intensity and distress related to body image and sexuality symptoms. Univariate linear regression revealed greater intensity of sexuality concerns was associated with younger age, whilst distress related to sexuality concerns was associated with higher inter-arm bioimpedance ratio and shorter duration of lymphedema. Body image concerns were not related to any considered factors. Conclusion Body image and sexuality concerns are common, intense and distressing for patients with breast cancer lymphedema. Assessment of both the intensity and distressed caused by these symptoms is necessary to understand the impact of lymphedema.

Automated summary

This study aimed to determine the frequency, intensity, and distress of body image and sexuality concerns in women with breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL), as well as explore the relationships between these concerns and lymphedema, personal, and cancer treatment factors. The results showed that body image and sexuality concerns were common and had a significant impact on patients. Assessing the intensity and distress of these symptoms is crucial in understanding the impact of lymphedema.