Lymphedema prevention in breast cancer patients
Lymphedema, swelling due to the removal of lymph nodes or from radiation therapy as part of cancer treatment, is often a consequence of cancer treatment.
Electra Paskett, PhD, in collaboration with colleagues at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center and other centers across the nation are conducting a study to see if a program of awareness, exercise and precautionary measures can reduce the incidence or severity of swelling in the arms and hands of breast cancer patients who received axillary node dissection.
“By educating women on the warning signs, hopefully they can get treated and prevent chronic swelling as well as significant swelling,” says Paskett. “If the prevention program works, women will easily be able to make these exercises and precautionary measures part of their daily routine.”
The study is enrolling breast cancer patients most likely to receive a full axillary node dissection before they begin any treatment. Participants will receive education materials only or education materials plus the program. To learn more or to find out if you are eligible to participate, call (614) 293-7280.
Yoga benefits for breast cancer survivors
Life after cancer can involve fatigue, physical changes and depression. Research shows that cardiovascular exercise can diminish these problems, but what if you can’t do it or have no interest in it?
Janice Kiecolt-Glaser, PhD, and collaborators at The Ohio State University Medical Center have launched the OSU Stress and Health Study to examine other ways to relieve cancer-related symptoms – a follow up on prior studies examining how stress, diet, activities and social support can affect the immune system. Their work has shown that depression increases the risk of infection and delays wound healing, while health-promotion activities, like yoga can improve immunity and depression.
“Yoga is idea for cancer survivors,” says Kiecolt-Glaser, “because its graded postures can be modified for individuals who are physically limited or sedentary.” The new study focuses on breast cancer survivors, but all cancer survivors can experience the benefits.
The study will enroll 200 stage I, II and IIIa breast cancer survivors who are two to 24 months post/chemo, -radiation or -adjuvant therapy (except tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors). Participants will be assigned to a 12-week yoga intervention or to a yoga intervention starting after six weeks of observation. To learn more or find out if you are eligible to participate, call (614) 292-0386, e-mail stressandhealth@osu.edu or visit the OSU Stress and Health Study Web site.
Spirit of Strength (SOS) Project: Help for cancer patients and survivors coping with depression
This study by Ohio State's Stress and Immunity Cancer Projects team is focused on developing effective treatments for cancer patients who are struggling with feeling stressed, depressed or anxious. These feelings are normal and usually diminish as a person adjusts to the diagnosis. However, for some, these feelings continue.
We can help determine if you are depressed in need of treatment to help get through this difficult time. Our treatment is designed specifically to help cancer patients and survivors who are coping with depression.
Interested patients should contact us to determine eligibility. Those eligible will complete an assessment of current symptoms. All eligible patients will be offered individual psychological therapy through the Psychological Services Center at Ohio State’s Department of Psychology at The Ohio State University. Treatment will be provided on a no-fee basis. Treatment consists of 12 to 20 sessions with a clinical psychologist that will help patients reduce stress, change depressive and anxious feelings and thoughts and become more active in their daily lives. For more information or to find out if you are eligible, please call (614) 292-8429.
