New microsite will boost understanding of lymphoedema
  
Vascular health specialist Activa Healthcare continues to support healthcare professionals with the recent launch of its new lymphoedema microsite,  www.activahealthcare.co.uk/lymph.  The microsite has been designed solely to inform, educate and help those affected with the condition.
  
Lymphoedema affects 100,000 people in the UK and is a condition which has been largely neglected due to a lack of education and shortage of specialist products. The microsite will serve as a reference point for both patients and professionals alike, helping people to understand the condition.
  
The site has four separate sections, all designed to take you through the different stages and possible causes of the condition.  All elements of the condition are detailed, from early detection to how to prevent it, and fit in to the following categories:
  
1.  About lymphoedema:  this section explains what it is and why it affects certain people.
  
2.  Patient information:  offers advice on causes, symptoms, treatment, frequently asked questions, as well as directing patients to other helpful associations.
  
3.  Lymphoedema after breast cancer:  the condition is most commonly caused by cancer and its treatment, including surgery and radiotherapy.  One in four breast cancer patients develop lymphoedema and there are few treatment options available. This section offers reassuring and helpful advice to patients.
  
4.  Prescriber Information:  Is very similar to previous sections but is geared more towards the professional, offering diagnostic advice and patient care.
  
Rob Holder, Marketing Director of Activa explains, "We launched the microsite to reassure sufferers they are not alone and offer practitioners support.   Activa Healthcare aims to produce products developed for nurses by nurses, as well as looking after patients' needs, so having a site providing helpful and informative advice about lymphoedema is key.  The microsite seeks to provide support on living with and treating the condition, as well as links to other helpful associations."

  (7/7/06)