Lymphedema rehabilitation: Provision and practice patterns among service providers: National survey.

Information on the current practices and quantification of lymphedema service may be beneficial to promote and improve the current health care system. Therefore, this study aimed to describe the characteristics of lymphedema practitioners, and lymphedema patients' profiles, and provide a comprehensive picture of lymphedema service provision in Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study design used an online survey to gather data. The survey included information about demographic and professional characteristics of lymphedema practitioners, lymphedema profiles, questions on the services provided, and perceived barriers in providing services. Eighteen lymphedema practitioners (38%) responded to the survey. Most of the respondents were physical therapists (94%), who had completed 135 hours of basic training course, and were certified as lymphedema therapists (89%). Most of these practitioners were in Riyadh (58%), Jeddah (25%), and Dammam (17%). About 75% of patients seen by practitioners had secondary lymphedema, predominately breast cancer-related lymphedema (47%). The average number of lymphedema practitioners per service is three. The perceived barriers reported included an inadequate number of certified therapists (100%), difficulties with transportation and lack of financial support (each; 72%), and limited space for lymphedema practice/management (89%). The results suggest lymphedema practitioners provide reasonable services for lymphedema patients; however, services are still limited and needs are unmet. Therefore, more staffing is required to promote awareness of the condition and related services, to develop and implement appropriate educational strategies, and improve geographical and multidisciplinary coordination of the services in Saudi Arabia.

Factors Associated with Health-Related Quality of Life Among Breast Cancer Survivors in Saudi Arabia: Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND: Assessment of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is a major concern among breast cancer survivors. Little is known about HRQO and its determinants in Saudi women with breast cancer (BC). This study aimed to describe the HRQOL of Saudi women with breast cancer and the association between HRQO and sociodemographic and clinical variables. METHODS: This cross-sectional study involved 147 BC participants who completed the 36-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36). Multivariable linear logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine factors associated with HRQOL. RESULTS: For the physical component scale, general health scored the highest (55.41±17.99) while, role physical function scored the lowest (48.61±22.51). The mean scores in the mental component were higher for social function (56.91±20.84), while the lowest score was observed for energy and vitality (49.62±20.84). Significant differences were observed in many SF-36 domains across the sociodemographic and clinical variables. Older age, having had a mastectomy as well as comorbid conditions, and receiving chemotherapy and hormonal therapy were associated with decreased HRQOL. However, being physically active, employed, and having more education were associated with higher HRQOL. CONCLUSION: HRQOL is generally poor among breast cancer survivors in Saudi Arabia, depending on a variety of factors. These findings highlight the need for routine QOL assessment. Furthermore, recognizing these predictors may play a key role in maximizing HRQOL for breast cancer participants.