Lymphedema Medical and Surgical Camp Report: Addressing Neglected Tropical Diseases in Uganda
In partnership with international and local medical experts, Lymphedema Warriors Association Uganda (LWAU) organized a series of medical and surgical camps aimed at tackling lymphedema and other neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) affecting communities across Uganda.
The results and insights from these camps have been published by Wounds International, highlighting both the achievements and the urgent need for sustainable care systems in the region.
🏥 About the Camps
The camps took place between 3rd and 20th September 2024 at Bugema University Hospital (Central Uganda) and Rukunyu Hospital, Kamwenge District (Western Uganda).
Over the two weeks, 376 patients were reached — 163 at Bugema and 213 at Kamwenge — making this one of the largest lymphedema-focused interventions ever held in the country.
Services provided included:
- Surgical interventions for advanced lymphedema cases
- Rehabilitation through compression therapy and exercise
- Manual lymphatic drainage and skincare sessions
- Health education and self-care demonstrations
- Free provision of compression materials and skincare products
These camps not only delivered life-changing treatment but also restored dignity for people living with long-neglected conditions.
📊 Key Insights
- Gender: 74% of participants were women, revealing both the higher disease burden among women and their active engagement in seeking care.
- Age: The majority of patients were over 35 years old, though younger patients (11–35 years) were also represented.
- Challenges:
- Limited follow-up systems post-camp
- Gaps in specialized equipment and training
- Transportation and coordination difficulties in rural areas
Despite these challenges, the camps showcased what collaboration, compassion, and community leadership can achieve.
💬 Why This Matters
Lymphedema, elephantiasis, and podoconiosis remain under-recognized and under-treated across Uganda and East Africa.
These conditions not only cause physical disability but also deep emotional and social stigma.
By combining medical care, education, and advocacy, LWAU and its partners are helping patients regain hope — and drawing national attention to these neglected diseases.
🚀 The Road Ahead
The report emphasizes the importance of sustainability and local capacity building:
- Extend the duration and reach of medical camps
- Establish regional rehabilitation centers for ongoing care
- Train more local healthcare professionals in lymphedema management
- Strengthen partnerships with government and international bodies
LWAU is already working toward the creation of Uganda’s first Lymphedema Rehabilitation Centre — a permanent home for treatment, training, and research.
🙌 How You Can Support
You can help continue this impact by:
- Donating to support rehabilitation center development and future camps
- Partnering with us on upcoming NTD interventions
- Sharing awareness to make lymphedema visible and understood
Together, we can make Uganda a regional model for lymphedema and NTD care.
📄 Read the full publication:
🔗 Wounds International Journal Article
