OPEN ACCESS GOVERNMENT OPIOID SERIES
The opioid epidemic is an ongoing issue globally. With so much at stake, and so much misinformation readily available, Drs Jason Busse and Norm Buckley worked with Open Access Government - an open access digital publication based in the UK - to create a series of informative articles addressing some of the most prominent issues surrounding opioids.
The series, with five articles published to date, covers the role of opioids in treating chronic pain, challenges with prescribing guidelines and current prescribing practices, as well as the impact of the opioid crisis in Canada and government response and strategies. The opioid crisis has been an issue in Canada for nearly 25 years. "Tragically, even though prescribing has declined between 2010-2023, the number of deaths associated with opioids has soared. Most deaths are now associated with highly potent synthetic opioids acquired through illicit markets and often mixed with other drugs or sold as other drugs without user awareness of their high potency," say Busse and Buckley.
The next article will appear in the July 2024 edition and will look at safer and more effective use of opioids and the importance of high-quality literature to support decision making and practice.
You can view the series by visiting: https://www.openaccessgovernment.org/michael-gdegroote-institute-for-pain-research-and-care
CANADIAN PAIN CARE FORUMFEBRUARY 2024
"I just spent years bouncing around a healthcare system, from clinician to clinician offering the same treatments. When their treatments didn't work, I was dismissed, I was not believed. And you know, honestly, many of us have really identical stories," said Virginia McIntyre, President of the People in Pain Network, at the February Canadian Pain Care Forum. McIntyre provided an overview of the work of the People in Pain Network, which offers various types of peer support, including bi-directional facilitation and education, empathy and understanding.
Peer support is crucial for individuals living with chronic pain, as it provides validation, connection and selfcare. Peer support networks can bridge gaps in the healthcare system and improve the lives of those living with chronic pain.
Tom Hoppe, former Chair of the Chronic Pain Centre Excellence Advisory Council for Veterans and producer and host of "The Most Painful Podcast", concluded the February meeting with a presentation looking at the impact of military culture on how Veterans approach and understand chronic pain. Hoppe identified the interplay between military identity and chronic pain, highlighting the impact of basic training and cultural factors on veterans' pain management.
In addition to sharing his experience creating a podcast series on chronic pain management for veterans, he emphasized the need for research and education in this area. Veterans face increased difficulties in seeking mental health care. Awareness and education on identity theory and cultural differences are crucial to better supporting Veterans' mental health.
CANADIAN PAIN SOCIETY SCIENTIFIC MEETING
A unique opportunity took place at this year's Canadian Pain Society Annual Scientific Meeting. The Canadian Pain Society united with Health Canada to hold the National Congress on Pain.
People with lived experience, clinicians and researchers alike convened the Westin, in downtown Ottawa, to catch up on the latest in pain research, as well as engage in important dialogue to help inform the future of pain management in Canada.
The Michael G. DeGroote National Pain Centre (NPC) and Institute for Pain Research and Care had more than 15 research posters on display, covering a wide range of topics including remote versus in-person cognitive behavioural therapy, the prevalence of chronic noncancer pain among military veterans and opioids for noncancer pain. The NPC's Dr. Jason Busse also took part in a panel presentation looking at the role of current prescribing practices for cannabinoids in the treatment of chronic pain.
At the Congress on Pain Dr. Norm Buckley began the morning, serving as a panelist at the Chronic Pain Network's breakfast session before moderating an afternoon session on pain networks in Canada.
The Congress on Pain also saw Busse join with Chair of the National Congress on Pain and President of the Canadian Pain Society John Pereira for a talk on opioid use for the management of chronic pain, looking at the new 2024 Canadian Opioid Guidelines.
The 2025 meeting will take place in Toronto, Ontario.
2024 ANNUAL RESEARCH DAY
"Veteran women experience higher rates of chronic pain than both civilian women and Veteran men," said Dr. Eleni Hapidou, of the Michael G. DeGroote Pain Clinic and the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence for Canadian Veterans. Dr. Hapidou, who discussed the intersectionality between gender, Veterans and chronic pain, was the first presenter of the day at the Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Pain Research and Care's Annual Research Day.
Held at The Gas Works in Hamilton, Ontario, this year's Research Day included presenters from across a wide range of disciplines and faculties. Drs Louis Schmidt and Cheryl Chow discussed childhood anxiety in an ecologically salient realworld context and interventions for reducing children's perioperative anxiety.
Dr. Thomas Hawke, from the Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, introduced attendees to LEMuR - the Lab for Exercise & Muscle Research, and discussed exercise-induced damage to skeletal muscle in those with Type 1 Diabetes.
Afternoon sessions included talks from Dr. Lisa Carlesso, from the Department of Rehabilitation Science, who discussed the role of pain mechanisms in people with knee osteoarthritis; Dr. Matiar Howlader, from McMaster's Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, who looked at biomarkers for unlocking aging and the chronic pain processes; and Dr. Thomas Doyle, of McMaster's Department of Engineering, who dove into the role of artificial intelligence in medicine, health research and chronic pain.
The next MGD Research Day will take place in 2025.
MEET IPRC FELLOWSHIP
RECIPIENT MALAHAT KHALILI
Malahat Khalili grew up in Rasht, a city in northern Iran. "It's a beautiful place," said Khalili. "It's known for its lush, green landscapes and a rich cultural heritage."
As a child, Khalili spent her time reading novels, exploring Iranian historical literature and following international football (soccer) matches. "In Iran, TV coverage allowed me to follow live streams of matches from countries like Italy, England, Spain and Germany." Khalili credits her early exposure to sports and literature with shaping her from an early age. It was McMaster University's reputation for excellence in evidence-based medicine and multidisciplinary research that drew Khalili to applying for a fellowship with the Institute for Pain Research and Care. "The fellowship offered the chance to work with leading experts and access cutting-edge resources. It also allowed me to contribute to impactful projects, such as my network meta-analysis on migraine management. These opportunities ensure that I can grow as a scientific researcher," she said.
CONGRATULATIONS!
A huge congratulations to the National Pain Centre's Rachel Couban and Dr. Jason Busse. Rachel is one of this year's recipients of McMaster's President Award, recognizing her outstanding individual service. Last year, Rachel celebrated 10 years at McMaster.
Dr. Jason Busse, Director of the National Pain Centre, has been recognized as a
Working with the Institute has fostered a collaborative environment that has provided Khalili with research opportunities that align with her background in epidemiology and systematic reviews. Her advice for those considering persuing a fellowship with the Institute in the future?
"Keep your curiosity alive and be open to learning new things in pain research—it's always evolving. Network with others in the field to build connections, explore collaborations, and share your knowledge. These steps will help you thrive in the supportive and exciting environment at the Institute for Pain Research and Care."
"It might get tough," Khalili added, "but sticking to your goals and being flexible can lead to success. And don't forget to ask for help when you need it—from your peers, mentors, or other resources around you."
University Scholar. University Scholars are mid-career researchers who have already distinguished themselves as international scholars and have demonstrated a commitment to the discovery, communication and preservation of knowledge, excellence in education and pedagogy, and to serving local and global communities.
Upcoming Events
Save the Date: Michael G. DeGroote Annual Pain Symposium
November9,2024
Where: University Club McMaster University Hamilton, ON Time: 8 am to 4 pm
For more information or to register, visit: pain-institute.healthsci.mcmaster.ca
IPRC Seed Grant Application Deadline November 15, 2024
For more information, visit: https://pain-institute.healthsci.mcmaster. ca/awards/
