(Alameda, CA—Sept. 2005) In 2004, 275,000 women in the U.S. were diagnosed with breast cancer. For any of them who have surgery or are treated with radiotherapy, lymphedema — a disfiguring, painful swelling, usually of the arm — is a possible side-effect. About 25% of breast cancer surgery patients, or 50,000 women annually, experience lymphedema.
Most doctors suggest that little can be done, but the authors of Lymphedema: A Breast Cancer
Patient’s Guide to Prevention and Healing believe that, on the contrary, something can be done. By Gwen White P.T., and Jeannie Burt, this book explains what a woman can do to prevent or minimize the
condition. It provides extensive information on reducing lymphedema through professional therapy as well as exercise and self-massage. It also covers compression garments and pumps, diet, the effects of environmental chemicals, and the benefits of relaxation.
Complete with more than 60 illustrations, Lymphedema also shows patients how to find
emotional support and resources for additional help. Personal stories of women who have successfully dealt with lymphedema highlight practical issues and give patients hope for the future.
This new edition provides updates on the latest research and information on the cutting-edge products and techniques developed for treating lymphedema. Since excess weight has been found to play a role, information about obesity and weight management is provided, and the nutrition and exercise sections have been expanded. Other new sections cover naturopathy, acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and new alternative therapies currently being tested.


ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Gwen White, P.T., has been a practicing physical therapist for 30 years, and specializes in the treatment of women with lymphedema. She lives in Portland, Oregon.

Jeannie Burt, a former lymphedema sufferer, has led an exercise program for women with the condition. A human resources consultant, she is the author of several previously published works of nonfiction. She lives in Portland, Oregon.


WHAT THE PRESS IS SAYING…

“[The authors] have written a book focused on patient education and empowerment while compiling a wide range of information and expertise that offers an excellent resource to clinicians.” — Physical Therapy (American Physical Therapy Association)

“If you are one of thousands of women who suffer from lymphedema, a common complication of breast cancer surgery and
treatment, take heart. Hunter House has just released Lymphedema, the first book to provide clear information about this chronic condition, describe specific treatment techniques, and — perhaps most important — show women that relief lies within their own hands.
“The authors know whereof they speak: Jeannie Burt is a breast cancer survivor and lymphedema patient; Gwen White is her physical therapist. Their text is thorough and readable, offering practical lessons in healing.
“While it sheds light on a generally overlooked condition, this book’s strength lies not only in its content, but in the spirit of hope it engenders.” — MAMM

“At a time when few resources exist, this book responds to a need voiced so desperately by women with breast cancer. The book is incredibly well-written — concise and easy to read-and able to get across exactly the information that patients want. The
practical knowledge and guidance through management options satisfies all possible readers. An emphatic and empowering tone are apparent throughout the book.
“Besides being a welcome addition to any resource library, this is a good recommendation for patients to add to their
personal library. The low cost makes this information accessible to many people and a real find.” — Oncology Nursing Forum

LYMPHEDEMA
A Breast Cancer Patient’s Guide to Prevention and Healing, 2nd Ed.
Gwen White and Jeannie Burt
Category: Health & Fitness / Women’s Health
Publication Date: August 2005
ISBN 0-89793-458-X / Paperback $14.95
5 1/2 x 8 1/2 inches / 245 Pages

This book is available in bookstores nationwide or may be ordered by calling 1-800-266-5592