A Latent Profile Analysis of Risk Perception in Breast Cancer‐Related Lymphedema Among Women With Breast Cancer

BACKGROUND: Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) is a common postoperative complication that impairs arm function and diminishes quality of life. Consistent engagement in self-management practices is crucial for the early prevention of BCRL. Since risk perception is a key determinant of behaviour change, it may serve as a critical target for improving adherence to BCRL self-management among patients with breast cancer. This research aimed to evaluate the profiles and determinants of risk perception related to BCRL in women after breast cancer surgery. METHODS: A cross-sectional study involving 211 patients with breast cancer was carried out. Participants were recruited using convenience sampling from a tertiary hospital in Nanjing. Data were collected using a general information questionnaire, a self-designed and validated risk perception questionnaire, a lymphedema-related knowledge questionnaire, the Perceived Social Support Scale, and the General Self-Efficacy Scale. Latent profile analysis was carried out to determine subgroups of risk perception related to BCRL. Univariate and multivariate analyses were employed to examine factors influencing these subgroups. RESULTS: Latent profile analysis revealed three distinct risk perception subgroups: low-level risk perception (18.0%), medium-level risk perception (39.8%), and high-level risk perception (42.2%). Multinomial logistic regression revealed that factors such as age, employment status, education level, monthly household income, type of breast surgery, lymphedema-related knowledge, perceived social support, and self-efficacy significantly influenced these risk perception profiles (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Substantial heterogeneity exists in risk perception levels regarding BCRL among patients with breast cancer after surgery. Healthcare providers should prioritize early identification of patients with low-risk perception tendencies and implement targeted interventions to address misperceptions. These efforts could enhance adherence to preventive strategies and mitigate the risk of BCRL.