The association of social support and quality of life in gynecological cancer related of lymphedema in a hospital: a pilot study

Abstract

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to investigate the association of social support and quality of life in patients with gynecological cancer related lymphedema. MethodsWe interviewed to patients with gynecology related lymphedema (n=27) for psychosocial effects, economic affects by questionnaire that we developed. Short form-36 ver. 2 questionnaire was used to assess quality of life of the patients. Beck's depression index questionnaire was used to assess mood change of the patients. In addition, we identifi ed support need for patients with gynecology cancer related lymphedema. Data were collected from 2009 to 2010. ResultsPatients with gynecology cancer related lymphedema have limitations to do lives such as activity of daily living, participate to leisure and exercise. Patients perceived symptoms were heaviness, limitation of range of motion, pain, weakness and feeling expansion in lower extremity. There was negative effect for fi nancial status because of increase medical cost and decrease income. However, there was not affect to relationship with family. Half of the patients have some depression symptoms and there was signifi cant decrease in quality of life such as especially, body pain and social functioning, compared to general population. ConclusionGynecological cancer related lymphedema have negative effect in quality of life, socioeconomic state and patients needed more social support. Therefore, more attention and social support for patients with gynecology cancer related lymhedema are needed.

Lower Limb Lymphedema and Quality of Life in Gynecologic Cancer Patients

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