An assessment of the knowledge of medical students about lymphedema – a survey-based study

Introduction
Lymphoedema is a dysfunction of the lymphatic system and a chronic disease. Knowledge about lymphedema is crucial for avoiding risk factors and for early recognition of the first lymphoedema signs. In the study, the authors assess both the knowledge and attitude towards lymphoedema among medical students of the Medical University of Silesia in Katowice. This study aimed to discuss the importance of spreading knowledge about lymphoedema.

Material and methods
The study assessed the knowledge of medical students about lymphoedema by using a dedicated questionnaire. The survey study was conducted from February 2022 to April 2022 and included medical students from the Medical University of Silesia in Katowice.

Results
The questionnaire was completed by 138 medical students in years 1–6. Most students (48.2%) stated that their knowledge was average, and a significant number of students claimed that they had never heard about lymphoedema during their university classes. Statistical analysis revealed that subjective assessment of knowledge and college level were dependent on each other, but there was no correlation with the objective assessment. The results showed that there was no relationship between gender and calculated body mass index (BMI) with either subjective or objective evaluation of knowledge about lymphoedema themed.

Conclusions
Knowledge about lymphoedema among the study participants is insufficient. Appropriate education of medical students is essential, which is crucial for early recognition of the first signs of lymphoedema among students and their future patients. Females and individuals with high BMI with higher risk of developing lymphoedema do not have greater awareness about lymphoedema, which can delay its recognition and early treatment.