Pain affects more Americans than diabetes, heart disease and cancer combined. While prescription pain medications are an important component of pain management, the reality is these products are prone to abuse and misuse.

In fact, more than 12 million people reported using prescription pain medications non-medically in 2010.  In addition to managing chronic pain, people affected by pain and the healthcare professionals who treat them must navigate a complex treatment landscape.

A new survey conducted on behalf of Teva Pharmaceuticals in collaboration with the U.S. Pain Foundation and the American Academy of Pain Management found healthcare professionals and people affected by pain recognize their personal responsibility in helping address prescription drug abuse, but acknowledge conversations about the issue can be uncomfortable.

help people affected by chronic pain

Some Findings About Abuse:

• Nearly one-third of patients surveyed worry that asking about abuse would suggest they have a problem and 25 percent worry their doctor will stop prescribing if they ask too many questions.
• Equally as many physicians said they sometimes feel uncomfortable talking with their patients about prescription drug abuse and 40 percent feel discussions of abuse may damage their relationships with patients.

help people affected by chronic pain

Across the board, survey respondents agreed information and resources are critical. The impact of chronic pain is evident but finding solutions takes time and both patients and doctors have a role to play. PainMatters.com is a new resource designed to help healthcare professionals and people affected by pain by offering information and resources, including downloadable tools and videos, as well as links to pain support and advocacy organizations.

During a recent interview, Paul Gileno, Executive Director, U.S. Pain Foundation and Melanie Rosenblatt, MD, Medical Director of Pain Management, North Broward Medical Center shared more about the survey results as well as information and resources to support healthcare professionals and help people affected by chronic pain.

help people affected by chronic pain

Take a look at the interview below.

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To learn more ways to help people affected by chronic pain, visit: PainMatters.com.

help people affected by chronic pain

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help people affected by chronic pain