Bioelectrical Impedance for Self-monitoring of Lymphedema

* Breast cancer treatment-related lymphedema requires life-long self-care is required. * No objective measurement mechanism exists that can easily be used to self-monitor arm volume. * Bioelectrical impedance devices approved for lymphedema measurement may be able to be used for self-monitoring. * The investigators will conduct a two-part study to first develop an impedance driven self-measurement protocal and then test the protocol in home settings. * The investigators hypothesize in part two of the study that when compared to participants who are not self-monitoring, those who self-monitor limb volume will: 1) report more days of garment use, skin care, and simple-MLD; and, 2) have fewer, less distressful, less intense symptoms, better productivity/activity, report higher perceived self-management/self-efficacy and QOL; experience fewer missed days of work, lymphedema treatment days, arm infections, and have a smaller number of antibiotic prescriptions.

Sex

All

Minimum age

21 Years

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Healthy Volunteers for Phase 1: no known history of cancer or lymphatic disease.
2. Lymphedema volunteers Phases 1 \&2: history of breast cancer and diagnosis of lymphedema in one arm.
3. All volunteers: ≥ 21 years of age.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Healthy Volunteers Phase 1: history of arm surgery or family history of primary lymphedema.
2. Lymphedema volunteers Phases 1 \& 2: bilateral lymphedema.
3. All volunteers:

   * inability to stand upright;
   * conditions that could cause swelling: pregnancy, congestive heart failure, liver failure;
   * infection, open sores on arms, or known sensitivity to electrodes;
   * pacemakers or internal defibrillators;
   * currently undergoing IV chemotherapy or radiation; or
   * use of laxatives or diuretics to lose weight.