Addressing the Forgotten Sex in Lymphedema Research: Risk Factors, Incidence, and Progression of Lymphedema Among Men With Prostate Cancer. The AWARE Cohort
Addressing the Forgotten Sex in Lymphedema Research: Risk Factors, Incidence, and Progression of Lymphedema Among Men With Prostate Cancer. The AWARE Cohort
The goal of this observational study is to examine the development and impact of lymphedema in men treated for prostate cancer. Lymphedema is swelling caused by damage to the lymphatic system and may develop after surgery with lymph node removal or after radiotherapy.
The main questions it aims to answer are:
How many men develop lower limb lymphedema after prostate cancer treatment? Which men are at highest risk of developing lymphedema? How does lymphedema affect quality of life?
Participants will attend follow-up visits every three months for 18 months at one of three Danish hospital sites: Rigshospitalet, Herlev-Gentofte Hospital, or Zealand University Hospital. At each visit, participants will undergo examinations for signs of lymphedema and complete questionnaires about symptoms, quality of life, and daily functioning. Participants who develop signs of lymphedema during the study will be advised to seek assessment and treatment from the hospital's lymphedema therapist.
Inclusion criteria
Exclusion criteria
• History of lymph node dissection/radiotherapy at the level of the pelvic or groin