Risk Factors
For those at risk of lymphoedema ( i.e. having had previous surgery with lymph node removal or lymph node irradiation), any further physical insult to the lymphatic pathways can raise the risk of lymphedema. These may include: inactivity, overweight/obesity, infection, stress, inflammation/ infection, extremes of heat, sunburn repeated blood draws on the affected limb, over activity /repetitive strain of the limb.
The research is being currently being revised regarding venepuncture (taking blood) and other risk factors however we suggest using common sense in situations that present a challenge; if you can use the unaffected limb , do so. |*Please see NLFI Risk Reduction Document.
Lowering risk
Maintain a healthy weight and active lifestyle, impeccable skin and nailcare, wearing suitable professionally measured compression when indicated
Prevalence Worldwide
WHO estimates 250 million people suffer with lymphoedema world wide
Prevalence Ireland
An estimated 13,000 to 15,000 patients in Ireland are affected by secondary lymphoedema.
An estimated 1,300 patients in Ireland with primary lymphoedema.
