Work

Healthcare professionals understanding, perceptions and experiences of head and neck lymphoedema to promote self-management for patients following completion of head and neck cancer treatment: a qualitative study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: PURPOSE: Head and neck lymphoedema (HNL) is a chronic and often debilitating consequence of head and neck cancer (HNC) treatment. Despite the chronicity, it is often under-recognised and under-treated. There is a finite resource of specialists to provide HNL intervention, necessitating self-management as an important pillar of patient management. This study aims to explore healthcare professionals (HCPs) understanding, perceptions and experiences of HNL management to promote self-management and adherence to HNL interventions in patients following completion of HNC treatment. METHODS: Eight focus groups were conducted with HCPs (n = 39) from different professional disciplines, acute and community settings and countries. Reflexive thematic analysis was adhered to in the development of key themes using an inductive approach. RESULTS: Two main themes were established: (1) 'Raising awareness of HNL as a chronic and complex condition' and (2) 'What are the solutions for promoting HNL self-management?' Data demonstrated that HCPs lack confidence and understanding in providing HNL support. There was a lack of clarity towards roles and responsibilities of HNL management among HCPs, with many having a desire to be better equipped to promote patient self-management and adherence. CONCLUSION: HCPs involved in care delivery of patients with HNC require education and training on HNL, to support patient and family engagement with HNL self-management. To advance adherence and compliance of HNL self-management, there is a need to develop a dedicated HNL self-management intervention, integrating theory and evidence.

Source: Journal of Cancer Survivorship

DOI: 10.1007/s11764-025-01868-4

Authors: Lauren J. Mullan, Nicole E. Blackburn, Jackie Gracey, Lynn Dunwoody, Jill Lorimer, Cherith J. Semple

Institutions: University of Ulster, Ulster University, Derry-Londonderry Campus, Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust

Language: English

Topic: Lymphatic System and Diseases

Subfield: Oncology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,790