IF you’ve not heard of the condition lymphoedema, you’re not alone. Hundreds of people are diagnosed with it every year due to cancer treatment, trauma or underdeveloped lymphatics. Even after diagnosis, people are left with a dearth of knowledge and treatment options.
Lymphoedema is the term given to swelling resulting from malfunction of the lymphatic system, caused by underdevelopment or damage. It is characterised by painful swelling in the extremities (arms and/or legs).
Many people have lymphoedema due of damage to the lymph nodes caused by surgery and/or radiotherapy. In fact, it is estimated that 24 percent of cervical cancer patients and 20 percent of breast cancer patients develop lymphoedema, as well as up to 29 percent of melanoma patients. It is estimated that 1 in 6,000 people are born with the condition.
A national campaign to draw attention to the condition during the month of March saw over 60 landmarks across Australia are being lit blue, including a tree in Monash Park and a Mooroopna water tower.
