“As we celebrate World Lymphedema Day, we are united in dreaming of a cure. On March 6, we raise our voices for all those who suffer from lymphedema across the globe, letting them know they are not alone,” declares Academy Award-winner Kathy Bates in the 2024 World Lymphedema Day video. Kathy Bates, who lives with lymphedema, advocates as the spokesperson for the Lymphatic Education & Research Network (LE&RN), the preeminent global non-governmental organization dedicated to fighting lymphatic disease and lymphedema through education, research, and advocacy.
Lymphedema (LE), a chronic disease with no cure and limited treatments, results in disfiguring swelling in one or more parts of the body. Lymphedema is permanent and progressive, often leading to pain, recurrent infections, hospitalization, impaired movement, and profound psychosocial impact. Approximately ten million Americans and an estimated 250 million individuals worldwide live with lymphedema. Shockingly, more people live with lymphedema than HIV, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) combined. Despite its prevalence, lymphedema remains underfunded in medical research and healthcare systems.
LE&RN recently achieved significant advocacy milestones for lymphatics. Notably, Kathy Bates’ testimony and LE&RN's lobbying led to the establishment of the National Commission on Lymphatic Diseases at the National Institutes of Health. Congress allocated funds for the inaugural Centers for Disease Control and Prevention grant, Expanding the National Approach to Chronic Disease Education and Awareness. Lymphedema and lymphatic diseases are now eligible categories for the Department of Defense’s Peer Reviewed Medical Research Program, unlocking a potential funding pool of $370M.
"World Lymphedema Day encourages global action towards a future where lymphatic diseases are fully understood, effectively treated, and ultimately cured," said William Repicci, president and CEO of LE&RN.
Advocates will organize global events featuring seminars, fundraisers, and landmark lightings to make lymphedema a global priority. On March 6, LE&RN offers free access to a recording of the Boston Lymphatic Symposium in partnership with the Boston Lymphatic Center. Individuals and organizations are encouraged to participate by hosting events, sharing stories, and promoting awareness using #WorldLymphedemaDay.
Lymphatic Education & Research Network
The mission of the Lymphatic Education & Research Network (LE&RN) is to fight lymphatic diseases such as lymphedema, lipedema, and lymphatic anomalies through education, research, and advocacy. For support in navigating the challenges of lymphatic disease, visit the LE&RN Resource Center, a free patient navigation program, online or by calling 1-855-378-8163.