<p>Lymphoedema (LE) is a dreaded condition. It is debilitating, chronic, and progressive, and is most commonly the result of cancer treatment (i.e. the surgical removal of lymph nodes or disruption to lymphatic pathways) in industrialised countries, or of filariasis in lesser developed countries. Lymphoedema is associated with significant medical, economic, and quality of life consequences, and over the last decade, LE awareness has increased as a result of the grass-roots efforts of patients, advocacy groups and LE specialists. In 2009, there is clear evidence that clinicians, investigators, organisations, and other stakeholders have taken collective notice of these efforts and are working together to advance the field.</p>
