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.