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Isolation of Human Lymphatic Endothelial Cells by Multi-parameter Fluorescence-activated Cell Sorting
Published on: May 1, 2015
Lymphoedema: an underestimated health problem
C J Moffatt1, P J Franks, D C Doherty
1Centre for Research and Implementation of Clinical Practice, Faculty of Health & Human Sciences, Thames Valley University, 32-28 Uxbridge Road, London W5 2BS, UK. christine.moffatt@tvu.ac.uk
QJM : Monthly Journal of the Association of Physicians
|September 23, 2003
Summary
Chronic oedema affects many in the UK, with low recognition and treatment rates. This condition significantly impacts patients' quality of life and health resource use.
Area of Science:
- Medical research
- Epidemiology
- Public health
Background:
- Chronic oedema (lymphoedema) is a significant cause of morbidity.
- Its epidemiology and impact on patients and health services are poorly understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of chronic oedema in the community.
- To assess its impact on healthcare resource utilization, employment, and quality of life.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire-based survey was conducted.
- Health professionals in various services across South West London Community Trust provided data.
- A subset of identified patients was interviewed.
Main Results:
- A prevalence of 1.33/1000 was found, increasing with age and higher in women.
- Only 64% of patients received treatment, despite specialist clinics.
- Oedema caused significant work absence (80%), affected employment (9%), and reduced quality of life (50% experienced pain).
- Acute infections led to hospital admissions and substantial costs.
Conclusions:
- Chronic oedema is a widespread issue in the UK, affecting at least 100,000 individuals.
- Non-cancer-related lymphoedema is more prevalent than often perceived.
- Current treatment resources, often cancer-focused, lead to care inequalities.
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