International health organizations and national health systems should list lymphatic dysfunction, lipedema, and venous insufficiency management as essential, as part of the campaign for universal health coverage around the world. Essential health care for adults and Children should be supplied at the national and local levels. Nontreatment or undertreatment of these diseases leads to disease progression regarding disability, disfigurement, and major complications. Inappropriate treatments also promote and prolong patient suffering at physical and psychological levels and loss of quality of life.
With reference to the treatment of lymphedema, regardless of the cause or setting, it should be the number one goal of countries in all regions of the world. But the reality right now is that millions of people are still undertreated or have no access at all to health care. Millions more are forced to choose between health care and food, clothing, or even a home. Elephantiasis is preventable in the majority of cases, if the underlying cause which is lymphoedema, is treated in its initial mild stages. In the case of lymphatic filariasis (LF), it is recognized that in many cases it is first acquired in childhood, often as many as one-third of children are infected before age 5.
Scientific studies highlight the importance and implications of compression therapy in controlling the progression of lymphatic dysfunction, lipedema, and venous insufficiency. Clinical outcomes on interventions to manage lymphedema, show that simple hygiene-based measures are necessary, but these alone are not enough to reduce the limb size and volume. Limb and genital Lymphedema should always be treated in their early stages, and not left undertreated till reaching its late severe stage “elephantiasis”. Read more what is the best treatment for lymphedema HERE.
Together we must celebrate this day, a day to push toward universal health coverage for people who suffer disabling diseases, such as “Lymphatic Dysfunction”, “Lipedema” or “Chronic Venous Insufficiency”. People should be taught to recognize symptoms and know when to see a physician for diagnosis, and national health systems should give access to correct treatment for these diseases.
References:
- Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (Article 25)
- Convention on the Rights of the Child (Article 24)
- Universal Declaration of Human Rights ( Article 25)
Scientific Societies:
- German Scientific Society Guideline. Diagnostic and Therapy of Lymphedema.
- Primary Lymphedema French National Diagnosis and Care Protocol (PNDS; Protocole National de Diagnostic et de Soins)
