Economic and Social Aspects of Secondary Lymphedema following Treatment of Breast Cancer

Abstract

introduction: The quality of life of female patients who have undergone mentally and physically demanding treatment of cancer is often affected by the emergence of secondary lymphedema. The purpose of our work is to evaluate this complexity not only from an objective but also subjective point of view. methods: Qualitative focusstudy in 18 patients under 60 years of age conducted by way of a structured interview during 2019 at the lymphological workplace. results: The economic burden for patients is on the average CZK 683 per month (about $360 USD per year), the treatment is paid for fully by health insurance companies. Lymphedema is a significant barrier in an occupation, more in women after treatment of the second grade of cancer than the first one. Lymphedema is a bigger obstacle for women with lower education, physically working. Family status does not have a significant effect on the treatment of cancer. conclusions: The study has confirmed the difficulty of treatment of secondary lymphedema after the treatment of breast cancer, both from financial and professional points of view. The medical staff should take into account these factors or expand the rehabilitation team and thus ensure better compliance in therapy