March is Lymphoedema Awareness Month, a national campaign led by the Lymphoedema Association Australia (LAA) to increase understanding of lymphoedema, promote early detection, and improve access to specialised care across Australia. This year’s campaign encourages communities and health professionals to ‘shine a light on lymphoedema’ — because the more we understand it, the earlier we can act, and the better the outcomes.
At Cancer Rehabilitation & Lymphatic Solutions (CRLS) in Erina, we are proud to support this important awareness month and provide leading lymphoedema care for people across the Central Coast.
What Is Lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema is a chronic swelling condition that occurs when the lymphatic system cannot properly drain fluid from the body. It most commonly affects the arms or legs but can also impact the chest, trunk, head and neck. It may be primary (developmental or genetic) or secondary, most commonly following cancer surgery or radiation involving lymph nodes.
Lymphoedema in Australia
Current Australian data highlights the impact:
- In 2020–21, there were 9,400hospitalisationswhere lymphoedema was recorded as a diagnosis (AIHW).
- Women experience higher rates,largely reflectingcancer-related lymphoedema patterns.
- Based on projected cancer diagnoses, approximately 4,100 Australians treated for breast cancer and between 1,600 and 5,100 treated for melanoma may develop secondary lymphoedema.
CRLS: Leading Lymphoedema Care on the Central Coast
At Cancer Rehabilitation & Lymphatic Solutions (CRLS), we combine compassion with innovation to provide comprehensive lymphoedema care close to home.
CRLS integrates bioimpedance spectroscopy monitoring using the SOZO, to detect fluid changes before visible swelling develops, allowing earlier clinical action.
The clinic also utilises OncoLaser™ protocols using MLS® laser therapy, supporting tissue healing, minimising cancer treatment side effects and enhancing lymphatic flow alongside:
- Manual lymphatic drainage
- Compression therapy
- Individualised exercise programs
- Education and long-term self-management strategies
This multi-modal approach aligns with evolving national and international best practice.
Meet the Team: Expertise You Can Trust
Kate – Global Leader, Local Care
CRLS Clinical Lead Kate is an internationally recognised expert in cancer rehabilitation and lymphoedema management. She is a sought-after speaker at conferences globally and is known for her leadership in integrating innovation and technology into lymphatic care.
Kate is passionate about ensuring people on the Central Coast have access to world-class lymphoedema management without needing to travel.
Caitlin – Specialist Lymphoedema Therapist
Caitlin is an accredited lymphoedema therapist with expertise in cancer-related and complex presentations, including head and neck lymphoedema. Her patient-centred approach ensures individuals feel supported, informed and confident in managing their condition.
Together, Kate and Caitlin provide highly personalised care tailored to each person’s stage of recovery and individual goals.
Early Detection Changes Outcomes
You do not need to wait for visible swelling to get help.
Early symptoms may include:
- A feeling of heaviness or tightness
- Subtle swelling
- Clothing or jewelry feeling tighter
- Reduced flexibility
- Recurrent skin infections
For patients who have had cancer treatment involving lymph nodes, proactive monitoring can identify changes before swelling becomes obvious.
For health professionals, incorporating risk assessment and early referral pathways into cancer care plans is now recognised as best practice.
A Message to Our Community
If you or someone you love has had cancer treatment involving lymph nodes — or is experiencing persistent swelling — don’t ignore it.
Early assessment can:
- Reduce long-term complications
- Improve comfort and mobility
- Decrease infection risk
- Support confidence and quality of life
For health professionals on the Central Coast, CRLS welcomes collaboration to ensure coordinated, proactive lymphatic care across our region.
This March, Let’s Shine a Light on Lymphoedema
Lymphoedema Awareness Month reminds us that knowledge empowers action. Through education, early detection and access to specialised care, we can improve outcomes for individuals and families across Australia.
At CRLS, we are proud to stand alongside patients, clinicians and the wider community to raise awareness and elevate standards of lymphoedema care on the Central Coast.
To learn more, contact the friendly and caring team at CRLS on (02) 4312 7033.
References
Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). (2023). Prevalence of lymphoedema in Australia. Canberra: AIHW.
Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). (2023). Lymphoedema hospitalisation data 2020–21.
Lymphoedema Association Australia (LAA). (2024). Lymphoedema Awareness Month resources and information. Retrieved from https://www.lymphaustralia.org.au/
Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). (2022). Lymphoedema – guide for diagnosis and management in general practice.