Understanding why Black women are more likely to develop lymphedema after breast cancer treatment

Mechanisms of racial disparity in breast cancer-related lymphedema

NIH-funded research Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research · NIH-11010772

This study is looking at why Black women are more likely to develop lymphedema after breast cancer treatment, and it will follow women who have had surgery to remove lymph nodes to find out what factors might increase this risk, with the hope of improving prevention and treatment options for those affected.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSloan-Kettering Inst Can Research NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11010772 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the cellular mechanisms that contribute to the higher risk of breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) in Black women. By following a group of women who have undergone axillary lymph node dissection, the study aims to identify specific risk factors and biological processes that lead to this condition. The research involves measuring arm swelling and other clinical assessments over a two-year period to gather data on the prevalence and severity of BCRL. The ultimate goal is to uncover insights that could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for affected individuals.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are Black women who have undergone axillary lymph node dissection as part of breast cancer treatment.

Not a fit: Patients who do not identify as Black or who have not undergone axillary lymph node dissection may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies and preventive measures for lymphedema, enhancing the quality of life for Black women at risk.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown a significant increased risk of BCRL in Black women, indicating that this research builds on established findings but seeks to explore new cellular mechanisms.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.