The proposed research training plan in this level 1 application will address the problem of lymphedema following breast cancer treatment. Training plan specific aims are to: 1) describe the physiological and pathophysiological processes relative to lymphedema; 2) critically review and synthesize theory and research related to lymphedema specifically and cancer symptom management more generally; 3) identify valid and reliable lymphedema measurement methods that can be feasibly implemented in outpatient oncology settings; 4) evaluate current treatment modalities for lymphedema; 5) examine biopsychosocial outcomes potentially related to lymphedema (e.g. altered touch, fine or gross motor movement, and sexuality); and 6) perform independent research in this area. The research question is: What is the short-term effectiveness of a multi-modal treatment regimen on reducing lymphedema and improving quality of life (QOL) outcomes when given as a first line treatment for breast cancer survivors? Research specific aims are to: 1) examine the short-term effectiveness of a multi-modal treatment regimen on reducing lymphedema when given as a first line treatment to breast cancer survivors; 2) examine tolerance to the multi-modal treatment regimen when given as a first line treatment to breast cancer survivors; 3) assess QOL outcomes associated with reduction of lymphedema.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR)
Type
Predoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F31)
Project #
5F31NR007854-02
Application #
6528878
Study Section
National Institute of Nursing Research Initial Review Group (NRRC)
Program Officer
Hare, Martha L
Project Start
2002-08-02
Project End
Budget Start
2002-08-02
Budget End
2003-08-01
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
2002
Total Cost
$43,193
Indirect Cost
Name
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Department
Type
Schools of Nursing
DUNS #
004413456
City
Nashville
State
TN
Country
United States
Zip Code
37212
Ridner, Sheila H; Dietrich, Mary S (2015) Development and validation of the Lymphedema Symptom and Intensity Survey-Arm. Support Care Cancer 23:3103-12
Ridner, Sheila H (2009) The psycho-social impact of lymphedema. Lymphat Res Biol 7:109-12
Ridner, Sheila H; Dietrich, Mary S; Deng, Jie et al. (2009) Bioelectrical impedance for detecting upper limb lymphedema in nonlaboratory settings. Lymphat Res Biol 7:11-5
Ridner, Sheila H; Dietrich, Mary S (2008) Self-reported comorbid conditions and medication usage in breast cancer survivors with and without lymphedema. Oncol Nurs Forum 35:57-63
Ridner, Sheila H (2005) Quality of life and a symptom cluster associated with breast cancer treatment-related lymphedema. Support Care Cancer 13:904-11
Ridner, Sheila H (2002) Breast cancer lymphedema: pathophysiology and risk reduction guidelines. Oncol Nurs Forum 29:1285-93