Despite recent medical advancements that address lymphedema, knowledge about this condition is still lacking among the general population. But with awareness, education and advocacy, more patients and families will get the answers they need to combat this and related lymphatic illnesses.
Whether you’re living with lymphedema or just learning about it, we invite you to join patients, healthcare providers, hospitals, families and friends around the world as we spread awareness and celebrate the search for a cure.
Becoming an advocate starts with getting familiar with the following fast facts about lymphedema as well as ways you can be a part of this very important cause.
Lymphedema: Five fast facts you should know
Education about lymphedema is the first step to advocacy. Also important is to learn ways you can use your knowledge for good. Take your support to the next level and get involved in your community with these ideas:
Start by doing research. Look up helpful websites like the Lymphatic Education & Research Network (LE&RN), Mayo Clinic, and Cancer.gov. These sites have free printable materials and downloadable content to help you expand your knowledge about lymphatic conditions. Get the word out by sharing these resources with friends and family.
Attend a local support group gathering. Support groups are a great place to hear and share stories and better your own understanding as many families have been touched by lymphedema. Someone just may find the knowledge you’ve gained useful for their own fight. And simply being there to encourage others can be all a person needs to gain hope.
Join a World Lymphedema Day event (or start your own). Visit the LE&RN website (https://lymphaticnetwork.org/wld/) to find an event in your area. Or start your own gathering and register your event. Don’t forget to announce your event to friends and family on social media, and share with the local media, too!
Talk to your doctor about lymphedema. Your primary care provider can help you learn more about the condition and determine whether screening is right for you based on family history and existing medical conditions. If you are living with lymphedema, ask for advice about managing symptoms, learn which compression garments are best for you, and get insight on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle through treatment.
How SIGVARIS Gives Hope to People Living with Lymphedema
As an active advocate and supporter of lymphedema research, SIGVARIS is proud to celebrate World Lymphedema Day in its mission to encourage and educate patients who deserve answers about the disease.
“As an advocate for the millions living with lymphedema, our company seeks to put lymphedema research front and center on the global healthcare stage through our long-standing relationships with nonprofits, researchers and the medical community,” says Barbara Osborne, CEO and President of Sigvaris Group North America.
To learn more about World Lymphedema Day or to join or start your own event, visit https://lymphaticnetwork.org/wld/
Source: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lymphedema/symptoms-causes/syc-20374682