Background: The development of lymphoedema and its severity are closely linked to obesity. More than 73% of the Welsh lymphoedema population are living with obesity and weight management is vital in their care. A well-educated workforce is important for delivery. Aims: This study explored healthcare professionals' nutritional knowledge, confidence and education needs in managing patients with lymphoedema. Methods: An online survey, based on the literature and expert opinion, was completed by 62 lymphoedema clinicians across Wales (57% response rate). Findings: A total of 40 (65%) healthcare professionals had no training in nutrition and only two reported formal training, highlighting an education need. Available weight management referral pathways were not well known and confidence in taking measurements such as waist to height ratio was low. Conclusions: To optimise weight management in people living with lymphoedema, evidence-informed pathways delivered by well-educated healthcare professionals are essential. This study has shown that education should be a short-term priority. Implications for practice: The lack of nutritional education and awareness of support available prevents lymphoedema practitioners from delivering a holistic assessment and treatment package.
Jones et al. (Wed,) studied this question.
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