September 2026 eCommunication | | |
September is Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month—a time to recognize the experiences of those affected by cancer and to reflect on the importance of ongoing care in survivorship.
Gynecologic cancers include cancers of the cervix, ovaries, uterus, vagina, and vulva. Lymphedema is a recognized potential effect of some gynecologic cancer treatments, particularly in the lower limbs. Reported rates vary depending on the type of cancer, treatment received, and how lymphedema is identified and measured.
Cancer treatments such as lymph node removal and radiation therapy can affect the lymphatic system, impairing the body's ability to move lymph fluid, increasing the risk of chronic swelling and related complications. Lymphedema can develop during or soon after treatment, but it can also appear months or even years later.
This September, we encourage you to:
- Learn the early signs and symptoms of lymphedema
- Learn about lymphedema risk after cancer treatment and the signs to watch for
- Seek support and connect with qualified care providers
- Share trusted information and resources within your community
- Advocate for improved access to care and coverage across Canada
By increasing awareness of lymphedema—particularly in the context of cancer survivorship—we can help ensure that no one is left without the knowledge, care, and support they need.
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To learn more about gynecologic cancer-related lymphedema, visit our Lymphedema Learning Library to read a curated selection of Pathways articles.
Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or health professional, we invite you to explore this resource and share it widely. Together, we can promote earlier recognition, better care, and stronger support for those affected.
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Lymphedema and Chronic Edema Management: Microcredential Course for Health Professionals
NEXT COURSE OFFERING: October 28 - December 5, 2026
Are you ready to enhance your clinical practice and make a real impact?
More than 1.25 million Canadians are estimated to be living with lymphedema, with many cases going undiagnosed. Greater awareness of early signs and symptoms can support earlier recognition and referral.
Build your knowledge of lymphedema and chronic edema
and strengthen your ability to recognize these conditions
in clinical practice.
This course is being offered in collaboration with the University of Alberta, as an introductory learning opportunity for health care professionals who may see individuals living with lymphedema or chronic edema.
This course will provide learners with a comprehensive overview of the complex aspects of lymphedema and chronic edema and present clinical management approaches for these conditions.
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SAVE THE DATE:
Registration Opens: October 1, 2026
Join us in Halifax from May 13-15 for the Canadian Lymphedema Framework Assembly 2027: Canada Connects – a national, three-day Assembly built around a fresh, innovative format designed for connection and collaboration.
CLFA2027: Canada Connects is a new kind of national Assembly — designed to turn awareness, expertise, lived experience, and partnership into shared momentum for better lymphedema care. Through Lymphedema LEAD Day – including a free public Lymphedema Learning & Resource Hub from 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM – and a two-day Open Space Forum, people living with lymphedema, professionals, researchers, advocates, industry partners, and other leaders will gather around one central question: What will it take to advance lymphedema care in Canada – and what are we ready to do together?
Registration details will be available at CLFA2027.ca when registration opens October 1.
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CLF and LANA: Supporting High Standards
in Lymphedema Therapist Certification
The Canadian Lymphedema Framework is proud to recognize the Lymphology Association of North America (LANA) as our Silver Education Partner — and we are grateful for LANA’s ongoing support of the CLF. Through the CLT-LANA credential, LANA helps recognize therapists who have completed appropriate lymphedema training and demonstrated their knowledge through an independent certification exam.
Did You Know?
CLF Can Help Canadian Therapists Save on the LANA Exam
Through our partnership with LANA, the CLF is pleased to provide access to a significant discount code for eligible Canadian lymphedema therapists preparing to write the LANA exam. To learn more about LANA and becoming LANA-certified, visit www.clt-lana.org. To request the CLF discount code, please contact admin@canadalymph.ca.
| | The CLF believes in strengthening connections across the lymphatic care community. In addition to CLF news, we are pleased to share important stories and noteworthy news, research updates, academic opportunities, and events shaping the lymphatic care landscape. Our emphasis is on Canadian initiatives, but we also feature items with international impact and relevance for our community. | | | | |
Lymphedema Association of Nova Scotia: Lymphedema Education and Resource Day
A Special Invitation for Atlantic Canada
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The #BLS2026 Lymphoedema Conference
When: October 5-7, 2026
Where: Chester Racecourse, Chester, United Kingdom
Learn More and Register: theblsconference.com/
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2026 Wounds Canada National Hybrid Conference
When: October 22-24, 2026
Where: Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
Learn More and Register: woundscanada.ca/health-care-professional/education-health-care-professional/2026-national-conference
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13th International Lymphoedema Framework Conference
Lymphoedema and Lipedema: What future lies ahead, between lights and shadows
When: October 28-31, 2026
Where: Rome, Italy
Learn More and Register: ilfworldcongress-rome2026.org/
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Canadian Lymphedema Framework Assembly 2027:
Canada Connects
When: May 13-15, 2027
Where: Dalhousie University Campus, Halifax, Nova Scotia
Registration Opens: October 1, 2026
Learn More: CLFA2027.ca
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Continuing Education Opportunities | | | | |
Lymphedema Association of Quebec (LAQ):
Pan-Canadian Survey on Cellulitis Episodes
and Lymphedema
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This survey aims to collect information about:
- the frequency of cellulitis episodes,
- the symptoms experienced,
- the treatments received,
- related hospitalizations,
- the impact on lymphedema management and the financial burden for patients.
The insights gathered will help inform efforts to strengthen lymphedema screening, improve access to timely and appropriate care, and better understand and address cellulitis-related complications. Your participation is an opportunity to contribute to meaningful change and help shape a more responsive and supportive system for the lymphedema community across Canada.
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LE&RN Patient Survey:
Your Experience with Lymphatic Disease Care
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LE&RN invites patients, caregivers, and families to complete a brief survey designed by patients, for patients.
Your feedback will directly inform discussions at LE&RN's inaugural Centers of Excellence Global Summit this October, where clinicians, researchers, and health care leaders from around the world will explore ways to strengthen research, diagnosis, treatment, and access to high-quality care.
| | Thank You to Our Industry Partners | | The Canadian Lymphedema Framework gratefully acknowledges the support of our industry partners. Their contributions help make our work possible and support education, awareness, and connection across the lymphedema community. We invite you to visit them online to learn more about their lymphedema products and services. Click any logo below to go directly to their website. | | ©2026 Canadian Lymphedema Framework | Website | | | | |
