Learn from Dr. Susan Witt and Dr. Neil Piller and examine their research on the impact climate change has on edema and lymphedema.

You will be inspired by the personal story shared by Anna Kennedy, where she openly discusses body image challenges living with lymphedema, and how it can affect anyone at any age.

Do you know how lipedema is diagnosed? Dr. Anna Towers presents recommendations of the Diagnosis Working Group of the International Lipoedema Association.

Measuring and fitting compression garments, whether custom-made or ready to wear, can be challenging. Learning often comes from experiencing garments that don't fit and need to be revised. Learn from Jessica Diamond, Megan Diamond, Claire Ann Deighton, Kim Radford, Dayna Ricard, and Jenny Whitlaw, who, together, share over 65 years of experience with fitting compression garments.

Gain insights into current research in an update provided by Spencer Gibson who is the Dianne and Irving Kipnes Endowed Chair of Lymphatic Disorders; and learn from our expert, Dr. Anna Towers on cortisone injections.

Learn about the ILF's 2023 Conference which took place in June in Nottingham, UK in a report by Dr. David Keast with highlights on plenary sessions, abstract presentations, the Exhibit Hall and networking opportunities.

As always, you will also find Hints & Tips, Event Listing, and our regular "Did you know?" research roundup.

2023 National Lymphedema Conference Program

The CLF Conference Team is working on the final details of what promises to be a great event you won’t want to miss. You can view the latest draft of the Program Schedule at this link, and explore speakers and sessions on our website at this link. We are pleased to share highlights of selected sessions with you, below.

Speakers and Sessions Spotlight

International Perspectives in Lymphedema

Lymphedema/chronic edema worldwide is under recognized and under treated. The LIMPRINT study has been conducted in 10 countries to date and work is underway to implement the study in various countries including resource-limited settings. The basic Core Tool will require adaptation. This session will look at prevalence and experiences in various settings.

Dr. David Keast BSc(Hon), MSc, DipEd, MD, CCFP, FCFP(LM) is the Medical Director of the Chronic Wound and Lymphedema Consultation Clinic at the Parkwood Institute in London Canada. He is Clinical Adjunct Professor of Family Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University (London). Dr Keast is an Associate Scientist, Lawson Health Research Institute, Parkwood Institute Research. He is co-chair of the Canadian Lymphedema Framework, Secretary Board of Directors of the International Lymphedema Framework and President of the World Alliance for Wound and Lymphedema Care.

Learn more about Dr. Keast and his sessions here.

Skin changes in lymphedema and risk reduction 

Lymphedema causes many skin changes. At the surface of the skin, one notes dryness. This can lead to vulnerability to trauma and infection. Deeper down in the skin, there may be deposition of fat and eventually fibrosis. Prevention and treatment of these potential complications will be discussed.

Catherine McCuaig, MD is a pediatric dermatologist working at the Sainte-Justine University Hospital Center Sainte-Justine, and clinical professor at the University of Montreal, Quebec. Her special interests include neonates, vascular anomalies (Hemangioma Investigator Group and the International Society for the Study of Vascular Anomalies), lymphedema, epidermolysis bullosa, laser and teaching. Dr. McCuaig is co-chair of the Canadian Lymphedema Framework.

Learn more about Dr. McCuaig and her session here.

Best care for the feet when you have lymphedema:

education and treatment plan

Proper foot care is essential for people living with lymphedema. The feet play a crucial role in the lymphatic system’s function, as they are often the starting point for lymph fluid movement toward the legs and trunk. Neglecting foot care can lead to secondary complications such as cellulitis infections, chronic wounds, ulcerations, and lymphangitis, which are more difficult to manage and may require intensive medical attention. Foot care and skin health practices will be discussed along with self-management resources and strategies. 

Maryse Beaumier, BScN, MSc in Nursing sciences, and PhD in biomedical sciences. Maryse is a Professor in the Department of Health at the University of Quebec at Rimouski, researcher at the CISSS Chaudière-Appalaches Research Center, and has been involved in the development of wound care for more than 20 years.

Audrey Wall, RN, BScN has been an RN for more than 25 years. Audrey has worked with the Canadian Association of Foot Care Nurses over the past few years in a number of roles and is currently serving as President. She was part of the group tasked with developing the National Competencies for Advanced Nursing Foot Care in Canada, which was subsequently published in 2017. 

Learn more about Maryse Beaumier and Audrey Wall here.

Announcing Forward Momentum:

Future Steps in Lymphedema Management Summit

Meet Our Sponsors

The Canadian Lymphedema Framework gratefully acknowledges the participation of these companies whose support makes our 2023 National Lymphedema Conference possible.

You will have the chance to thank them in person and learn about their products and services by visiting with them in the Exhibit Hall during the conference.

(c) 2023 Canadian Lymphedema Framework | Website