Lymphoedema: a female health issue with implications for self care.

Many women in the general population either have, or are at risk of developing, lymphoedema, which is an incurable but manageable life-long condition, which may have a devastating effect physically and emotionally. Factors that predispose women to develop lymphoedema are outlined in this article. Strategies to prevent or minimize the severity of lymphoedema are identified. The role of healthcare professionals in empowering women and promoting actions and attitudes that enable them to minimize the risk of developing lymphoedema or exacerbating established lymphoedema and facilitating coping are discussed.