Cognitive-Affective Predictors of the Uptake & Sustained Adherence to Lymphedema Symptom Minimization Practices in Breast Cancer Survivors

摘要

Approximately 20-30% of women develop lymphedema (LE) following breast cancer treatment. Effective symptom management requires that women recognize early signs of lymphedema and maintain precautionary practices over time. Data indicates that knowledge and use of symptom minimization precautions are poor. Little is known about how breast cancer survivors perceive their LE nsk and the cognitive- affective factors that promote the uptake and adherence to LEsymptom minimization precautions. Guided by the Cognitive-Social Health Information Processing (C-SHIP) model we conducted a longitudinal study to assess barriers and facilitators associated with knowledge and adherence to LE symptom-minimization practices among breast cancer survivors. We are exploring the mediating role of cognitive- affective variables and the moderating role of attentional style on knowledge uptake and adherence of symptom minimization precautions at baseline 6- and 12-month follow-up post treatment. Little is known about how individuals understand and make sense of these issues and few resources have been developed to address this problem. Through systematic investigation of these factors we will be able to develop a profile of the role of cognitive-emotional processing in the management of lymphedema. These data will ultimately be used to design and evaluate enhanced management protocols tailored to the individual%s cognitive-emotional signature.