Identifying prognostic variables for persistent upper limb dysfunctions after breast cancer treatment: body functions, personal and environmental factors according to the International Classification of Functioning, Disease and Health (ICF)

Decreased upper limb (UL) function is common after breast cancer treatment and has a tremendous impact on a woman's quality of life. Since survival rates are increasing, it is essential to identify these factors during and after breast cancer treatment contributing to persistent UL dysfunctions in terms of identifying targets for prospective evaluation and specific treatment approaches at specific time points. Therefore, this project plans a prospective cohort study to determine the prognostic value of body functions and structures, personal factors and environmental factors according to the International Classification of Functioning, Disease and Health (ICF) at different time points after breast cancer surgery for persistent UL dysfunction in breast cancer survivors. This knowledge is a crucial step in the development of a sound prediction model for persistent UL dysfunctions and a prospective care pathway for clinical practice.