Cancer and its treatment can affect or damage the body’s lymphatic system. This can lead to a build-up of lymph fluid (also known as swelling) in tissues under the skin. We call this swelling lymphoedema. Not all cancer survivors will experience lymphoedema. Lymphoedema most often occurs in the arm or the leg but can occur in other parts of the body. Understanding what lymphoedema is and how to manage can help survivors improve their function and quality of life.
Information for cancer survivors and their carers
- Understanding lymphoedema fact sheet, Cancer Council
- Lymphoedema: What you need to know booklet, Cancer Australia
- Lymphoedema treatment and management website, Cancer Council
- Lymphoedema: Information session online information session, Counterpart
- State-based support groups, Australasian Lymphology Association
- Lymphoedema Association Australia, website, Lymphoedema Association Australia
- Lymphoedema website and videos, MacMillan Cancer (UK)
- Exercise and lymphoedema website and videos, Cancer Research UK (UK)
- For people with lymphoedema website, American Cancer Society (US)
- For people at risk of lymphoedema website, American Cancer Society (US)
Clinical services at Peter Mac Melbourne campus
The following services are available to patients at Peter Mac Melbourne campus. Please speak with your oncology team if you are receiving treatment elsewhere. This is because you may have different clinical service options.
- The Wellbeing Centre: The Wellbeing Centre is on Level 1 of the Peter Mac Melbourne building. It is a gathering place for patients, their families and carers. It offers a variety of programs, services and education opportunities
- Physiotherapy services: Physiotherapists and exercise physiologists can help with mobility and physical function. They can help before, during and after cancer treatment.
- Optimisation clinic: This multidisciplinary outpatient clinic is for cancer survivors with complex needs. Services include a dietitian, psychologist, physiotherapist, and occupational therapist. Speak to your treating team to be referred to this clinic.
Other clinical services in the Parkville precinct
The precinct includes the Royal Melbourne Hospital and Royal Women’s Hospital. Peter Mac is also part of the Parkville precinct. Please speak with your oncology team if you are being treated elsewhere. You may have different clinical service options.
Please email