The Chronic Pain Epidemic: What's to Be Done?

More than 100 million Americans struggle with chronic pain, according to one Institute of Medicine estimate, at an annual cost of as much as $635 billion in treatment and lost productivity. Further, the misuse of potent opioid painkillers, while increasing risk of addiction and abuse, can confuse the conversation around appropriate chronic pain management. This Forum brought together a panel of experts to discuss the causes, treatment and impact of chronic pain, exploring the neuroscience behind the pain experience. The panelists examined how clinicians can best serve their patients, highlighting the recommendations of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ recent National Pain Strategy. The Forum also looked at myriad pain management options, including marijuana and mindfulness meditation. And panelists examined relevant pain care policies, including prescription monitoring program regulations, drug development and funding for research.

Part of The Dr. Lawrence H. and Roberta Cohn Forums, this event was presented jointly with The Huffington Post and in association with Harvard Health Publications on November 10, 2016.

Watch the entire series from The Forum at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health at www.ForumHSPH.org.