Table 2 Proportion of breast cancer survivors who correctly answered questions about common lymphedema misconceptions, by referral to lymphedema therapy
Question (correct answer) | Total patients (N = 209) with correct answer, No. (%) | Patients NOT referred to lymphedema therapy (n = 156) with correct answer, No. (%) | Patients referred to lymphedema therapy (n = 53) with correct answer, No. (%) | p-value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Avoid using arm on affected side for strenuous activity at work (False) | 97 (48) | 80 (52) | 17 (33) | 0.02 |
Avoid using arm on affected side to carry > 10lbs (False) | 100 (49) | 84 (54) | 16 (32) | < 0.01 |
Weight gain can increase risk of lymphedema (True) | 112 (55) | 75 (49) | 37 (73) | < 0.01 |
Exercise arm on airplane (True) | 128 (63) | 88 (58) | 40 (80) | < 0.01 |
Avoid using arm on affected side to lift weights (False) | 151 (75) | 112 (74) | 39 (76) | 0.74 |
Rest arm as much as possible (False) | 169 (82) | 128 (83) | 41 (80) | 0.72 |
Exercise and stretch arm regularly (True) | 179 (86) | 131 (84) | 48 (94) | 0.07 |
Wait a day to call doctor if arm becomes red/warm (False) | 189 (92) | 142 (92) | 47 (92) | 0.90 |
Avoid using arm for house chores (False) | 191 (92) | 142 (91) | 49 (96) | 0.24 |
Avoid using arm for light office work (False) | 196 (95) | 148 (95) | 48 (94) | 0.84 |