2026 LED Report

On May 8, 2026, the BC Lymphedema Association, in partnership with BC Cancer, hosted a Lymphedema Education Day for healthcare professionals. More than 160 occupational therapists, nurses, physiotherapists, physicians, massage therapists and other healthcare providers attended in person and virtually, demonstrating the growing demand for lymphedema education across British Columbia.

The day opened with Dr. Lauren Capozzi of BC Cancer Kelowna, who shared a vision of earlier diagnosis and treatment for lymphedema alongside a provincially integrated cancer rehabilitation program. With cancer-related lymphedema affecting nearly 28% of cancer survivors in Canada, increasing healthcare professionals' knowledge is essential to improving patient outcomes.

Attendees learned from leading Canadian experts on current best practices in lymphedema care, including Complete Decongestive Therapy, compression therapy, wound management, exercise, nutrition, research, and the LifestyleRX program. The conference received outstanding evaluations, with participants emphasizing the need for more educational opportunities like this.

Thanks to the generosity of our donors and supporters, BCLA continues to expand education, strengthen partnerships, and improve access to evidence-based care. Every healthcare professional we educate creates a ripple effect, helping more people receive earlier diagnosis, better treatment, and improved quality of life throughout British Columbia.