The Prevalence of Chronic Pain in Canada

Published population estimates of the prevalence of chronic pain have been highly variable due, in part, to differences in definitions and study methodologies. Designing health care delivery models that address chronic pain and reduce its impact, however, require accurate, up-to-date prevalence data. This article first reviews studies that examined the prevalence of chronic pain both internationally and in Canada. The ensuing sections describe a telephone-based survey of a well-defined population of adults using a detailed and sequential definition of chronic pain, and well-validated and reliable data collection tools for establishing the prevalence of chronic pain in Canada

Management and prevention of herpes zoster: A Canadian perspective

Varicella-zoster virus reactivation leads to herpes zoster – the main complication of which is postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). Rapid antiviral therapy initiated within 72 h of rash onset has been shown to accelerate rash healing, reduce the duration of acute pain and, to some extent, attenuate the development and duration of PHN. Other adjunctive therapies such as analgesics, antidepressants and some anticonvulsants are frequently required in the management of severe PHN. A live, attenuated zoster vaccine has been recently shown to significantly decrease herpes zoster incidence, PHN and the overall burden of illness when administered to adults older than 60 years of age. This new prophylactic modality has been reported to be cost-effective in the Canadian context, especially in the 60- to 75-year-old age group

Use of Opioid Analgesics for the Treatment of Chronic Noncancer Pain - A Consensus Statement and Guidelines from the Canadian Pain Society, 2002

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