Medicines industry supports National Pain Week

Medicines Australia supports activities underway this week to raise awareness of the impact of chronic pain in Australia and to find ways to help those living with pain.

“Medicines Australia applauds the efforts of Chronic Pain Australia and its partners in organising National Pain Week to raise awareness of the challenges faced by those living with chronic pain”, said Medicines Australia chief executive Dr Brendan Shaw.

“Chronic pain affects 29 per cent of Australians, and even if we don’t experience chronic pain ourselves, 61 percent of Australians know someone who lives with the condition.

“It is important that we do all we can to improve the quality of life for people with pain and to support those working in this important health area.”

Dr Shaw said that medicines are just one component of the treatment options available to those seeking help to manage their pain.

“Medicine is one of the treatment options available for those living with chronic pain.  Treatment options should always be discussed with a doctor and medicines used wisely according to best practice.”

There are a number of new medicines in the research and development pipeline that offer hope to those living with pain.  A survey of global biopharmaceutical and research companies in 2011 reported 67 medicines in development for rheumatoid arthritis, 23 for osteoporosis, and 19 for lupus, as well as medicines in development for pain resulting from conditions such as chronic pain syndrome (Fibromyalgia) and migraine.

“The medicines industry is working hard to discover, develop and bring out new medicines to treat pain”, Dr Shaw said.

“We are proud to play a role in the effort to improve the quality of life of those living with chronic pain which also brings relief for their families.”

-ENDS-

Contact Person:

Julie Johnson

Public Affairs Officer, Medicines Australia

Ph: 0422 141 784