The International Lymphoedema Framework is one of the most important and accredited international scientific societies in the field of lymphatic pathologies. The birth of the Italian Group will certainly push the studies on Lymphology with renewed energy.
Italy is historically one of the ‘cradles’ of Lymphology worldwide. From Gaspare Aselli to Paolo Mascagni (just to mention two historical figures), the interest in the anatomy and pathophysiology of lymphatic diseases has always been deep, although not supported by an adequate institutional organization to guarantee research and assistance in these pathologies.
The formula of the International Lymphoedema Framework, to which ITALF refers, in compliance with the guidelines of the main international scientific societies of the field, is undoubtedly ambitious and not without important cultural and scientific challenges. For the first time a scientific association has as its protagonists physicians, physiotherapists, nurses, orthopedic technicians, but also patients, patient associations and voluntary organizations, companies, all equally involved in the common effort to find the best solutions to the problems of these patients, who do not recognize differences in age, gender, social or cultural status. They are all united by the misfortune of having to live with a chronic disease, naturally tending to aggravation, complications and clinical flare-ups, and with all the psychological and, not least, economic repercussions that the condition entails.
We are confident that with a great common effort we will give impetus to the search for new practical solutions to these problems, with the close comparison of the experiences of all those who, in any capacity, revolve around them. We will do it in the scientific and research field, in the institutional field for the regularization of care processes so that they are present in the territory, in the field of information and, above all, in the cultural, technical and practical training that many sectors of medical care in this area still need.
We ask for your effort to take off with an ideal and practical thrust that will allow us, in the interest of all, to promote these ideals. Good work to all
Sandro Michelini
ITALF President