Lymphedema Association pushes for better treatment, awareness
It is a lifelong condition, and the number of people it affects is growing.
March 6 has been declared ‘Lymphedema Awareness Day’ by the city of Prince Albert, and organizers hope to educate more people about the often-unrecognized condition.
“Lymphedema affects an estimated one million people in Canada. According to researchers, as much as 70 per cent of lymphedema goes undiagnosed,” said Verna Schneider, past president of the Lymphedema Association of Saskatchewan.
There are two types of lymphedema: the primary cases occur when a person is born with a faulty lymphatic system, and the secondary cases occur when a person’s lymphatic system is damaged by surgery, severe trauma, radiation or other things. Swelling from the buildup of fluid most often happens in the arms or legs, but can occur in the breasts, trunk, genitals or head and neck. According to the Lymphedema Association, the condition often causes decreased mobility and repeated episodes of infection, and can lead to general worsening of the patient’s life and health.