A Latent Profile Analysis of Risk Perception in Breast Cancer‐Related Lymphedema Among Women With Breast Cancer

Background Breast cancer‐related lymphedema (BCRL) is a common postoperative complication that impairs arm function and diminishes quality of life. Consistent engagement in self‐management practices is crucial for the early prevention of BCRL. Since risk perception is a key determinant of behaviour change, it may serve as a critical target for improving adherence to BCRL self‐management among patients with breast cancer. This research aimed to evaluate the profiles and determinants of risk perception related to BCRL in women after breast cancer surgery. Methods A cross‐sectional study involving 211 patients with breast cancer was carried out. Participants were recruited using convenience sampling from a tertiary hospital in Nanjing. Data were collected using a general information questionnaire, a self‐designed and validated risk perception questionnaire, a lymphedema‐related knowledge questionnaire, the Perceived Social Support Scale, and the General Self‐Efficacy Scale. Latent profile analysis was carried out to determine subgroups of risk perception related to BCRL. Univariate and multivariate analyses were employed to examine factors influencing these subgroups. Results Latent profile analysis revealed three distinct risk perception subgroups: low‐level risk perception (18.0%), medium‐level risk perception (39.8%), and high‐level risk perception (42.2%). Multinomial logistic regression revealed that factors such as age, employment status, education level, monthly household income, type of breast surgery, lymphedema‐related knowledge, perceived social support, and self‐efficacy significantly influenced these risk perception profiles ( p < 0.05). Conclusions Substantial heterogeneity exists in risk perception levels regarding BCRL among patients with breast cancer after surgery. Healthcare providers should prioritize early identification of patients with low‐risk perception tendencies and implement targeted interventions to address misperceptions. These efforts could enhance adherence to preventive strategies and mitigate the risk of BCRL.