Who Is Likely to Have Pain After Breast Cancer Surgery?

November 15, 2009

Many studies have shown that women are likely to have long-lasting pain after surgery for breast cancer, but a recent study is suggesting that some groups of women are more likely than others to experience pain. Specifically, younger women (women under 40) and women who undergo radiation are more likely to experience chronic pain. The study also suggests that if surgery includes dissection of the underarm lymph nodes, the patient is more likely to experience chronic pain.

Regardless of whether a survivor falls into one of the high risk categories or not, one's doctor should be consulted regarding post-treatment chronic pain management. And as always, when reading information from a study like this one, it is important to remember that cancer is a complicated disease. Its combination of causes and associated symptoms are unique to each survivor. This is why it is so important for a survivor to have a great relationship with his or her doctor; the doctor is best suited to help the survivor develop strategies for dealing with the many challenges that cancer presents.

Read the HealthDay News article about the study

by Christian McEvoy, MPH, Director of Survivorship Information Connecticut Challenge