Lymphedema is a chronic swelling that occurs when the lymphatic system is either faulty or damaged.

* There are many causes, but the most common is cancer treatments that remove lymph nodes, making lymphedema a significant survivorship issue.

* Lymphedema affects an estimated 3-5 million Americans, with two-thirds of all cases being cancer-related.

* 15% of all cancer survivors develop lymphedema, sometimes immediately and sometimes not until years or even decades later.

* Breast cancer is the leading cause, with 40% of all survivors developing lymphedema.

* There is no cure for lymphedema, but it can be effectively treated.

* Compression therapy is the cornerstone of treatment for lymphedema, yet compression supplies are not covered by Medicare and many other insurance policies.

* Without proper and consistent treatment lymphedema is progressive.

* Prognosis for the patient is far worse and treatment is more costly when the disease is not identified and treated in the earlier stages.