18

What is the prevalence of Lymphoedema?

How many people does Lymphoedema affect? Does it have the same prevalence in men and women? And in the different countries?

Prevalence of Lymphoedema

Lymphoedema is a chronic condition characterized by the accumulation of lymph fluid, leading to swelling in various parts of the body. The prevalence of lymphoedema varies depending on the population studied and the underlying causes. In general, it is estimated that around 1 in 1,000 individuals worldwide are affected by lymphoedema. However, this number may be higher in certain populations, such as those who have undergone cancer treatment or have a genetic predisposition. Early diagnosis and proper management are crucial in minimizing the impact of lymphoedema on individuals' quality of life.



Lymphoedema is a chronic condition characterized by the accumulation of lymphatic fluid, leading to swelling in various parts of the body. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic predisposition, surgery, radiation therapy, infection, or trauma. The prevalence of lymphoedema varies depending on the population studied and the underlying causes.

According to estimates, the prevalence of lymphoedema ranges from 0.13% to 2.0% in the general population. However, it is important to note that these figures may not fully capture the true extent of the condition, as many cases go undiagnosed or unreported.

Certain subgroups are more susceptible to lymphoedema. For example, individuals who have undergone cancer treatment, particularly breast cancer, are at a higher risk. Studies suggest that up to 40% of breast cancer survivors may develop lymphoedema. Additionally, primary lymphoedema, which is caused by genetic abnormalities, affects approximately 1 in 6,000 individuals.

Early detection and appropriate management are crucial in minimizing the impact of lymphoedema on individuals' quality of life. Treatment options include compression therapy, exercise, manual lymphatic drainage, and skin care. It is essential for healthcare professionals to raise awareness about lymphoedema and provide support to those affected.
Diseasemaps
1 answer

Prevalence of Lymphoedema

Lymphoedema life expectancy

What is the life expectancy of someone with Lymphoedema?

2 answers
Celebrities with Lymphoedema

Celebrities with Lymphoedema

1 answer
Is Lymphoedema hereditary?

Is Lymphoedema hereditary?

2 answers
Is Lymphoedema contagious?

Is Lymphoedema contagious?

2 answers
Natural treatment of Lymphoedema

Is there any natural treatment for Lymphoedema?

1 answer
ICD9 and ICD10 codes of Lymphoedema

ICD10 code of Lymphoedema and ICD9 code

2 answers
Living with Lymphoedema

Living with Lymphoedema. How to live with Lymphoedema?

1 answer
Lymphoedema diet

Lymphoedema diet. Is there a diet which improves the quality of life of peo...

1 answer

World map of Lymphoedema

Find people with Lymphoedema through the map. Connect with them and share experiences. Join the Lymphoedema community.

Stories of Lymphoedema

LYMPHOEDEMA STORIES
Lymphoedema stories
As I reached pre teens my legs increased in diameter noticeably. It was then my mum watched very carefully what I ate. School lunches for me were cold meat and salads with a piece of fruit. At age 14 I was enrolled at a gym and attended 3 times a wee...
Lymphoedema stories
I have always had large legs and was always told to lose weight.  They kept getting bigger and bigger and finally I could not get pants to fit anymore. My GP retired and I got a new one.  I showed her my legs and she immediately knew what it was.�...

Tell your story and help others

Tell my story

Lymphoedema forum

LYMPHOEDEMA FORUM

Ask a question and get answers from other users.

Ask a question

Find your symptoms soulmates

From now on you can add your symptoms in diseasemaps and find your symptoms soulmates. Symptoms soulmates are people with similar symptoms to you.

Symptoms soulmates

Add your symptoms and discover your soulmates map

Soulmates map