Matters of Interest

Lymphoedema Action Alliance

The Hon. D.G.E. HOOD (15:24): I rise to speak on the important work of the Lymphoedema Support Group in South Australia and the Australian Lymphology Association, two of 20 groups nationwide joined under the Lymphoedema Action Alliance, formed in an effort to help improve the lives of Australians living with lymphoedema.

I had the privilege of meeting with members of the LSGSA (as I will refer to it for the rest of this contribution) very recently, and was moved to raise awareness of the issues we had the opportunity to discuss. I wish to acknowledge their presence in the chamber today, along with a number of their fellow advocates. I certainly appreciate their time and efforts to be present on behalf of the community they represent, and I know they are pleased that their plight is being held and heard by the chamber today.

For those who are not familiar with this condition, 'lymphoedema' is a term used for chronic progressive swelling, typically in the limbs, trunk, head or groin regions, which frequently causes infection and may result in skin breakdown. It is predominantly attributed to a malfunction of the lymphatic system due to treatment for certain cancers or physical trauma and, less frequently, as being a result of underdeveloped lymphatics. Although there is no data available for the incidence of lymphoedema in South Australia, research undertaken in the United Kingdom suggests a conservative estimate of over 2,000 people would be living with the condition in our state at the current time.

With increasing cancer diagnosis and survivorship, South Australians will inevitably require continued access to lymphoedema treatment, both now and into the future. The latest research indicates that the development of lymphoedema following cancer treatment affects 20 per cent of breast cancer patients, a figure I was surprised to hear; some 30 to 50 per cent of gynaecological cancer patients; shockingly, almost 75 per cent of head and neck cancer patients; and up to 29 per cent of melanoma patients. These are very significant numbers, and it is indeed potentially a very debilitating condition. I am sure members would agree that these statistics are very concerning and action should be taken where current provisions fall short of current and anticipated needs.

Thankfully, the Lymphoedema Support Group SA and the Australasian Lymphology Association are endeavouring to ensure that this occurs. The LSGSA is a consumer-led body supported by the Flinders Medical Centre lymphoedema research unit and the Cancer Council SA, which provides peer support, raises awareness about lymphoedema and strives to improve patient services in South Australia through consumer advocacy projects. It works in cooperation with the ALA, a peak professional body committed to promoting the development of lymphology in Australasia and delivering excellence in lymphoedema management, research and education. Together, the LSGSA and ALA seek to foster greater levels of peer support and increase community awareness of the condition and its effects.

The groups inform me that they are frequently contacted by a number of South Australians with the condition seeking treatment and advice who are unable to afford consultation fees for private practitioners, which can be substantial. In the absence of proper treatment, the frequent GP visits, hospitalisation, home care and early nursing home admissions can all lead to those affected requiring assistance from support agencies and the government. In South Australia, I am advised that there are no comprehensive lymphoedema clinics, dedicated lymphoedema practitioners, clear treatment pathways or equitable sustainable access to affordable lymphoedema compression garments, although I understand that in other states there are.

As lymphoedema can be controlled with early detection and timely treatment by appropriately trained practitioners, more resources dedicated to this condition would inevitably decrease the burden of care for both individuals and the SA Health system. I therefore look forward to bringing this issue to the attention of the Minister for Health, who I am sure will be pleased to give due consideration to the vital needs of those suffering with this serious condition.

Again, I express my thanks to the Lymphoedema Support Group SA, the Australasian Lymphology Association and the Lymphoedema Action Alliance for ensuring those in positions of influence are well informed of these needs within our community. It was something I was unaware of, and I am genuinely grateful to the people who brought it to my attention. They could otherwise quite easily remain overlooked without the dedication and tenacity of their members. I commend them on the work they do and assure them of our government's interest in this issue.