Lymphoedema education, research and treatment
The Australian Lymphoedema Education, Research and Treatment (ALERT) Centre is a fully integrated health sciences service combining excellence in clinical care with education and research.
In 2020 the ALERT Centre was awarded the prestigious title of LE&RN Centre of Excellence – Lymphatic Disease Network in recognition of the outstanding multidisciplinary clinical care and services provided for individuals affected by lymphatic diseases (LD) and their families.
Read more about the Lymphatic Education and Research Network.
Our strategic priorities
Our vision
A world where individuals with lymphoedema, lipoedema or chronic oedema have access to early diagnosis, effective treatment and support, empowering them to live healthy lives.
Our mission
Delivering high-standard personalised clinical care, evidence-based education and innovative research in the field of lymphoedema, lipoedema and chronic oedemas.
We seek to:
- be the leading provider of continuing professional development and postgraduate qualifications for health professionals
- advance scientific understanding in early diagnosis and innovative treatments through rigorous research, collaboration and patient-centred care
- position our clinic as the leading national multidisciplinary 'one-stop shop' provider.
About lymphoedema
Lymphoedema is a chronic condition caused by a functional overload of the lymphatic system, where lymph volume surpasses its transport capacity.
This under-researched and poorly understood condition can:
- significantly affect physical and psychological well-being
- diminish quality of life
- impose substantial costs on patients and healthcare systems.
Its prevalence is rising due to increased cancer survival rates and longer life expectancy. There are two types of lymphoedema:
Primary
This is due to abnormal lymphatics. It can occur at any age from infancy to old age.
Secondary
This is most commonly caused by cancer treatment to the lymph nodes, but can also be caused by other trauma.