Data on the impact of The-Optimal-Lymph-Flow program on lymphedema symptoms in breast cancer survivors

Many breast cancer survivors face long-term postoperative challenges as a result of developing lymphedema symptoms and chronic lymphedema. The-Optimal-Lymph-Flow (TOLF) program is an intervention based on physiological-cognitive-behavioral principles that teaches patients self-management strategies to activate lymphatic system and promote lymph flow to decrease lymphedema symptoms, reduce the risk and severity of lymphedema. This data article presents the data obtained from a randomized clinical trial aimed at evaluating the use of TOLF program as an early intervention for breast cancer survivors at risk for lymphedema on improving lymphedema symptom experience and optimizing lymph fluid levels. Between January 2019 and June 2020, a total of 92 eligible patients were randomly assigned to either the TOLF intervention group or the control group. Data was collected in terms of patients’ baseline demographic and clinical characteristics, pre- and post-intervention lymphedema symptom experience (i.e., the number of symptoms, symptom severity, symptom distress, and the impact of symptoms on patients’ activities of daily living) and lymph fluid levels (indicated by the limb volume differences). The Breast Cancer and Lymphedema Symptom Experience Index was used to measure lymphedema symptom experience and circumferential arm measurement was used to estimate limb volume differences. The data comparison between intervention and control groups at baseline and study endpoint were provided in this publication. The data shared can be used as a comparative reference in clinical settings or experimental studies to help determine the optimal exercise modalities in breast cancer survivors to reduce lymphedema risk and symptom sufferings, and provide a basis for further research related to this topic.