BreastSurgANZ, Guy Hingston, lymphedema

1. Lymphedema a Health
Threat to Post-Cancer
Patients
Guy Hingston

2. Lymphedema a Health Threat to
Post-Cancer Patients
A surgeon specializing in breast reduction, Guy
Hingston also has significant experience with breast
cancer surgery. Dr. Hingston is a foundation
member of BreastSurgANZ, a group of practitioners
serving Australia and New Zealand.

3. Lymphedema a Health Threat to
Post-Cancer Patients
BreastSurgANZ is publicizing a disease that often
strikes after cancer surgery: lymphedema. This is a
disease of the lymphatic system that produces
painful swelling in the arms, legs, chest, genitals,
and head. Primary lymphedema is genetically based
and generally occurs after puberty, while secondary
lymphedema strikes after injuries, infections, or
cancer.

4. Lymphedema a Health Threat to
Post-Cancer Patients
Australian experts report that lymphedema occurs
as a side effect after breast cancer in about 20 to
25 percent of women undergoing treatment. Five to
seven percent of those women will experience
severe symptoms. Symptoms of lymphedema
include swelling, loss of mobility, pain, and skin
infections in the stricken limb. Persons who have
had radiation therapy may have to take precautions
against lymphedema for as long as they live.