Take action now - lymphoedema

Lymphoedema is an incurable long-term swelling that can affect people after treatment for breast cancer and can be painful and debilitating.

Lymphoedema can have a significant impact on a person’s life: their arm can feel heavy and difficult to move and their skin can become dry and tight. Some patients also face difficult restrictions on their day–to-day lives due to concerns that certain activities could worsen their condition. This can make it difficult to work, wear normal clothes, do everyday tasks such as gardening or washing up or even play with their children or grandchildren.

In some areas of the UK, people who develop lymphoedema after breast cancer treatment aren’t getting access to the care they need due to inequalities in the services provided. This means that some people have to travel long distances, wait without treatment, or pay privately for appropriate treatment.

To ensure everyone who develops lymphoedema after breast cancer treatment has access to services that ensure they have the best possible quality of life we are calling on all PCTs to work with cancer networks to commit to 10 Steps to High Quality Lymphoedema Services (22 kb) .

Make an impact to improve lymphoedema services in your are:, Ask your MP to write to the Chief Executive of your local PCT asking them to commit to implementing Breakthrough’s "10 steps to achieving high-quality lymphoedema services".You can find your MPs details and write to them online at WritetoThem.

You can find out details about your local PCT by visiting the NHS Choices Website, where you can search using your postcode.

For more information on taking action contact Lizzie Cook, Senior Local Engagement Officer, on 020 7025 0277 or email lizziec@breakthrough.org.uk.

Join Breakthrough’s Campaigns & Advocacy Network and take action locally to secure improvements in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer.

Find out more about Breakthrough’s Constant Reminder? Living with Lymphoedema campaign >