National Lymphedema Network Breast Cancer Related LE-Position Paper

Dear Colleagues and Friends of the NLN, It is with great pleasure that I am forwarding the latest NLN Position Paper "Screening and Measurements for Early Detection of Breast Cancer Related Lymphedema" written by the NLN Medical Advisory Committee in response to recent developments in breast cancer related lymphedema. The NLN remains committed to the early detection and treatment of all types of lymphedema. The urgency in writing this paper for breast cancer related lymphedema is due to evidence indicating that early detection of latent breast cancer related lymphedema offers an opportunity to identify and treat lymphedema more successfully at an earlier stage. The National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC) has adopted the NLN guidelines for early detection of breast cancer related lymphedema. This NLN Position Paper allows the guidelines to be available to all patients, providers, and advocacy groups regardless of where breast cancer treatment is received. This is vital new information for breast cancer survivors at risk for lymphedema. Please disseminate this document to anyone with a need to know the latest recommendations for breast cancer related lymphedema. We encourage patients and advocacy groups to give the document to their medical providers. Medical providers seeking more information regarding these guidelines can contact the NLN at nln@lymphnet.org. Additionally, we would like to share with you a new book "Dr Vodder's Manual Lymph Drainage: A Practical Guide," written by Hildegard Wittlinger and other family members. The book provides excellent review references, a practical guide with detailed illustrations and photographs, and is a great new edition for new student and seasoned certified LE therapist, and physicians. You can read the book review for more information."Dr. Vodder's Manual Lymph Drainage" can also be order through the NLN store.