The Canadian Lymphedema Framework, in a 2018 collaborative education project with our volunteer Education Working Group, Medical Advisory Committee, and generous funding support from the Alberta Lymphedema Association, developed and printed patient education materials to increase public awareness and patient care of lymphedema. There is a pamphlet and a 24-page booklet available. The pamphlet was newly updated in January 2024. Click the images to open, view, and/or download a digital copy, which you are invited to print and/or share.
Lymphedema Patient Information Pamphlet
This pamphlet is available for bulk order at a very low cost that includes shipping anywhere within Canada.*
*Limited time special offer while supplies last.
Living with Lymphedema : Learning to Take Charge
Vivre avec le lymphoedème : Se prendre en charge
You might also be interested in sharing this physician reference card on lymphedema prevalence and treatment in Canada
More than one million Canadians suffer from lymphedema and/or chronic edema, a progressive, chronic inflammatory condition that can affect any area of the body, most commonly the limbs. Most of these Canadians remain undiagnosed and/or untreated.
Canadian physicians are primarily familiar with cancer-related lymphedema, however recent physiological research has shown that all excess interstitial fluid is handled by the lymphatic system, concluding that any chronic swelling may, in fact, lead to lymphedema or lymphatic failure.
While some cases of lymphedema are mild and may resolve on their own, any edema lasting more than a few months causes permanent lymphatic damage. Lymphedema usually requires higher compression classes and specific decongestive approaches.
Early diagnosis and adequate management are critical to prevent complications such as recurrent bacterial cellulitis and wounds.
We developed this reference card through the Canadian Lymphedema Framework as an education tool to alert physicians regarding the latest best practice recommendations for the identification and treatment of this condition.
Dr. David Keast
Co-Chair, Canadian Lymphedema Framework
Dr. Anna Towers
Co-Founder, Canadian Lymphedema Framework
