PSVM World Lymphedema Day 2025 Celebration

PSVM World Lymphedema Day 2025 Celebration Dr. Lea Arceli G. Porciuncula

On March 4, 2025, in celebration of World Lymphedema Day, a successful and impactful

forum on Early Screening for Breast Cancer Lymphedema was held in collaboration with

the PSVM Council on Lymphology, iCanServe Foundation and the Commission on

Audit at the COA Multipurpose Hall, Commonwealth Avenue, Quezon Cty. The event

brought together vascular medical specialist, some medical professionals, breast cancer

survivors, advocates, and community leaders to address one of the most significant yet

often overlooked issues faced by breast cancer survivors: lymphedema.

Lymphedema is a chronic condition that can develop after breast cancer treatment,

resulting in painful swelling, and in some cases, loss of mobility. With early detection and

proper management, however, many cases can be minimized or even avoided. This forum

aimed to raise awareness, promote early screening, and provide a platform for open

discussions about the resources available to those affected.

One of the key highlights of the this celebration was the insightful panel

discussion featuring esteemed experts in the field of lymphedema management and

vascular medicine. The panelists included:

• Dr. Melissa Jasmin Bernardo, President of the Philippine Society of Vascular

Medicine, a leading expert in vascular health, and

• Mr. Jason Francis Roxas, a Certified Lymphedema Therapist, who brought his

expertise in specialized therapy and patient care for those living with lymphedema.

Dr. Bernardo and Mr. Roxas emphasized the critical importance of early screening for

lymphedema, particularly for breast cancer survivors. They discussed how early

identification can help reduce the severity of symptoms and improve the overall quality of

life. Early intervention through specialized treatment and care can prevent long-term

complications such as chronic swelling and mobility issues. The panelists also underscored

the importance of partnerships between organizations like the iCanServe Foundation,

healthcare providers, and policy-makers to raise awareness, increase access to screening,

and advocate for improved healthcare services for breast cancer survivors.

By the end of the panel discussion, the audience was left inspired and empowered to

advocate for early lymphedema screening and to continue supporting breast cancer

survivors in their journey towards healing and improved quality of life.

As part of the activity, members of the PSVM Council on Lymphology and vascular

medicine research fellows, provided free breast cancer-related lymphedema screening,

offering attendees an invaluable opportunity to receive early detection services at no cost.

This initiative was aimed at empowering both breast cancer survivors and the general

public by providing them with the tools they need for early diagnosis and better health

outcomes.

The success of the free breast cancer-related screening at the forum is a testament to the

power of collaboration between healthcare providers, organizations like the iCanServe

Foundation, and community-focused initiatives. We encourage continued efforts to

provide free or low-cost screenings in underserved areas, and we call on healthcare

providers, advocacy groups, and policymakers to prioritize accessibility and education in

the fight against breast cancer related lymphedema.

As we reflect on World Lymphedema Day, the commitment to early screening, better care,

and the empowerment of survivors is stronger than ever. Let this day serve as a reminder

that through collective action and awareness, we can make a lasting difference.