The existence of international days is to raise public awareness on issues of concern, so as to mobilize political will and resources to address problems, the specific problems that need urgent attention. Today 12 December, people all over the world join to rise demand regarding access to universal health coverage and call on health systems to invest in proper, effective, and safe treatment options for all, and to leave no one behind.
The slogan “LEAVE NO ONE BEHIND” regarding health issues related to Lymphedema, Lipedema, and ChronicVenous Insufficiency means that Health Systems must invest in proper, effective, and safe health care for all, whatever their cause or setting. The United Nations General Assembly endorsed a resolution On 12 December 2012, urging countries to aim towards the goal that everyone, everywhere, should have access to quality health care, and proclaimed 12 December as Universal Health Coverage Day (UHC Day) by resolution 72/138. Millions of people all over the world with Lymphedema, Lipedema, and Chronic Venous Insufficiency are still waiting for proper and effective health care, and many of them are already in severe stages.
Lymphedema Stage III (elephantiasis) in the majority of cases is the result of no treatment or undertreatment of lymphostatic edema. Failure to treat and control the initial swelling leads later to recurrent dermatolymphangioadenitis (infectious cellulitis - DLA), progressive skin changes, the external physical difference (deformity/disfigurement), and disability. Permanent swelling also affects people's lives in many other ways, such as the fitting of clothing and footwear, impair mobility, or even sexual function. The damage is not only physical but can also lead to serious economic, social and interpersonal consequences. Due to a combination of factors such as under-treatment, disability, external stigma, people with severe Lymphedema may lose their jobs, be rejected from their communities, or have difficulty starting or maintaining social relationships. The discrimination and isolation resulting from all these factors can, in turn, lead to negative psychological and psychosocial outcomes. Read more information about an important psychological aspect surrounding lymphedema HERE.
Elephantiasis (Lymphedema Stage III) can be prevented and treated in the majority of cases with effective Compression Therapy (CDT), which helps reduce the edema and stop the progression of the disease. Treating the underlying condition (Lymphedema) in its early stages, with propper compression therapy, prevents progression of the disease towards its severe stage called elephantiasis. Wearable compression garments are the most effective daily treatment and are considered the cornerstone of Lymphedema management. Elephantiasis is not something rare that can only be seen in poor or underdeveloped countries, but can also be found in high-tech wealthy nations. Scientific studies highlight the importance and implications of compression therapy in controlling the progression of Lymphoedema. Read more information on what is the best treatment for Lymphedema HERE.
Health systems must be equitable, resilient, and capable of meeting people's needs, and everyone, everywhere, deserves access to quality health services. Universal Health Coverage Day is observed annually on December 12 with the aim to ensure people around the world can get the quality health services they need.
LIPEDEMA / CHRONIC VENOUS INSUFFICIENCY
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- WHAT KIND OF DOCTOR TREATS LYMPHEDEMA/LYMPHOEDEMA - WHICH MEDICAL SPECIALITIES ARE RELATED TO LYMPHEDEMA
LYMPHEDEMA INCIDENCE
AND PREVALENCE
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LYMPHEDEMA INCIDENCE
AND PREVALENCE
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