Hanne Hutsebaut

My research focuses on lymphoedema as a long-term complication after treatment for gynaecological cancers, including cervical, endometrial and ovarian cancer. As survival rates improve, increasing numbers of patients live for many years after their diagnosis, making treatment-related side effects an important area of research. One of the most impactful of these is lymphoedema: a chronic condition caused by damage to the lymphatic system following surgery, radiotherapy and/or systemic treatment.
Lymphoedema can lead to persistent swelling, discomfort, functional limitations and a reduced quality of life. It also carries a significant psychosocial and economic burden. Despite its prevalence, lymphoedema often remains underdiagnosed and undertreated, and there is still limited understanding of its early development and optimal management.
The aim of my research is to improve the prevention, early detection and treatment of lymphoedema in this patient population. By studying how lymphoedema develops over time, identifying patients at higher risk, and evaluating early interventions, we seek to prevent progression to irreversible stages of the disease. This research complements traditional cancer research by shifting focus from survival alone to survivorship and long-term outcomes. Ultimately, this work contributes to more holistic and patient-centred cancer care, aiming not only to cure cancer, but also to minimise its lasting impact on patients’ daily lives.
 

• Lab address: Ghent University Hospital, entrance 75, C. Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent
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• Hanne Hutsebaut is interested to receive invitations for presentations or talks