EVIDENCE-BASED OR TRADITIONAL TREATMENT OF CANCER-RELATED LYMPHEDEMA

Abstract

The incidence of lymphedema (LE) relatedto treatment of women’s cancer (breast andgynecologic) is as high as 40%. Treatment ofLE varies around the world but was decadesago initially based on programs includingmanual lymph drainage (MLD), compression,skin care and easy exercise. With accumulatingevidence and experience, it is time to considerif altering these treatment principles isneeded. Based on accumulating evidence, wesuggest less emphasis on manual lymphdrainage and more on early diagnosis,compression, weight control and exercise forimprovement of strength and circulation.