Factors Influencing the Self-management of Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema: A Meta-synthesis of Qualitative Studies.

Background: Patients with breast cancer have an estimated 14% to 60% risk of developing lymphedema after treatment. Self-management behavior strategies regarding lymphedema are essential in preventing and alleviating the severity of lymphedema.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate qualitative research evidence on the potential influencing factors for self-management behaviors of lymphedema in patients with breast cancer.

Methods: A systematic search of 10 electronic databases was conducted to identify qualitative studies on patient experience of lymphedema self-management. The following databases were included and appraised using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist: Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, PsycINFO, Scopus, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Med Online, and Chinese Biomedical Database.

Results: The literature search yielded 5313 studies, of which only 22 qualitative studies fulfilled the eligibility criteria. Five synthesized findings were derived encompassing personal characteristics, personal knowledge and experience, personal health beliefs, self-regulation skills and abilities, and social influences and support.

Conclusions: Patients with breast cancer are confronted with many challenges when performing self-management of lymphedema. Therefore, it is important to recognize potential facilitators and barriers to further offer practical recommendations that promote self-management activities for lymphedema.

Implications for practice: Healthcare professionals should receive consistent training on lymphedema management. On the basis of individual patient characteristics, tailored education and support should be provided, including transforming irrational beliefs, and improving related knowledge and skills, with the aim to promote self-management behaviors with respect to lymphedema.