An online survey exploring how lymphoedema risk or symptoms affect how much people take part in physical activity after primary breast cancer.
What’s the title of the study?
Physical activity knowledge, preferences and behaviour of people in the United Kingdom at risk of, or living with, breast cancer-related lymphoedema: a cross-sectional web-based survey
What’s the project about?
Research suggests that physical activity levels tend to be low after breast cancer. And even lower when people experience lymphoedema.
This study is exploring physical activity levels among people living beyond primary breast cancer. Particularly for people who are at risk of, or living with, breast cancer-related lymphoedema.
The researchers want to understand how different types of physical activity, previous treatments, and the information people have received about being active after breast cancer may influence activity levels.
The findings will help build a clearer picture of why physical activity may be more difficult when lymphoedema is present or likely.
We recently shared an opportunity for Voices to give feedback on this survey. Thank you to everyone who took part - your input has helped mean that this research study is accessible and relevant for participants.
Who’s organising it?
Name of project lead: Laura Henry
Job title: PhD Researcher and Physiotherapist
Organisation: Ulster University
Email address: Henry-L30@ulster.ac.uk
Who can take part?
You can take part if you:
- Are over 18 years old
- Have previously been diagnosed with stage 1, 2 or 3 breast cancer
- Completed all active treatment (other than hormone therapy) more than 3 months ago
- Have had one or more armpit (axillary) lymph nodes removed as part of your treatment
- Live in the United Kingdom
- Can read and respond to questions in English
- Have access to a phone, tablet or computer
Why do you want me to be involved?
Your involvement will help researchers better understand what influences physical activity for people who are at risk of, or living with, breast cancer-related lymphoedema.
This will help shape future research and, ultimately, improve physical activity information and support for breast cancer survivors.
What will you ask me to do?
You’ll be asked to complete an online survey. Before starting, you’ll be given information about how your data will be used and asked for your consent.
The survey takes around 20 minutes and includes questions about:
- Your breast cancer treatments
- Lymphoedema symptoms
- Your physical activity behaviours and preferences
- Information you may have received about being active after breast cancer
All responses are anonymous. At the end, you’ll have the option to leave your contact details if you’re interested in taking part in future research.
How do I get involved?
To take part, please complete the online survey.
If you can’t access the survey online, you can contact Laura Henry at Henry-L30@ulster.ac.uk to request a paper copy by post.
When’s the deadline?
31 August 2026
Get involved
Complete the survey and help researchers understand people's experience of exercise after breast cancer, so they can develop a tool to support more people to be active.