Lymphedema impact and prevalence international study: the Canadian data

Abstract

Background: Chronic edema/lymphedema is defined as edema present for more than 3 months. It is under recognized and under treated. The International Lymphedema Framework developed an international study, Lymphedema Impact and Prevalence International (LIMPRINT) to estimate the prevalence and impact of chronic oedema in heterogeneous populations. Canada participated in this study. Methods: Participants were recruited from an outpatient chronic wound management clinic. At a study visit the following tools were administered: The Core Tool, Demographics & Disability assessment (WHODAS 2.0), Quality of life assessment (LYMQOL + EQ-5D), Details of swelling, Wound assessment and Cancer. Data were entered into an international data base (Clindex) and country specific data was analyzed. Results: 68 subjects were enrolled. 57% were males and 43% females. Over 90% were over 45 years of age. Only 7.35% had primary lymphedema. Most had lower extremity edema (65 of 68). Over half (47.06%) were morbidly obese with Body Mass Index > 40. The most common underlying condition was venous disease. Only 8 of 68 had a history of cancer. While 72.06% had a history of cellulitis only 10.2% had been hospitalized I the past year. 39.71% had an open wound. Greater than 75% had received multilayer bandaging, compression garments, wound dressings and extensive counselling. Few had received manual lymphatic drainage which is not funded. Disability was less than expected. Conclusions: Chronic edema/lymphedema is an under recognized condition. This data and the wider LIMPRINT study are important tools to advocate for wider recognition and funding of treatment by health care systems