Chronic Conditions
“Individuals with severe health conditions are nearly twice as likely to live in poverty.”
Naomi Thornton, Migraine Patient Support Team, Migraine Ireland Page 04
“For people living with a chronic illness, it means getting the support they need.”
Dr Sarah M O’Brien, National Clinical Advisor & Group Lead for Chronic Disease, HSE Page 11 www.healthnews.ie
People living with obesity deserve comprehensive care, in the same way that care would be provided for other chronic conditions.
~Read more on Page 12
Irish families get new digital tools to manage type 1 diabetes at home and school
Discover the award-winning self-management app and video platform that was rolled out in Ireland last year. It has now launched an emotional wellbeing section for children and teens living with type 1 diabetes.
Now, the DigiBete platform also plans to introduce a new ‘carb counting’ feature on the app. Founded in the UK and rolled out in Ireland by Diabetes Ireland, the app supports children and teens with type 1 diabetes and their families by giving them a place to organise their appointments, ongoing care and access to relevant educational resources. Families can access ageappropriate diabetes information such as quizzes, videos, food and exercise support.
Type 1 training rollout in schools
Diabetes Ireland has partnered with West Pharmaceutical Services, a global leader in injectable medicines, to support the rollout of DigiBete in Ireland. It continues to add new information sections to the platform and is now beginning to add more information relevant to an Irish audience. This includes a comprehensive ‘Schools Training’ platform to help teachers and special needs assistants learn about and manage students with type 1 diabetes during school hours.
Platform expands to young adults
Christina Hamilton, Education and Support Coordinator, Diabetes Ireland, says: “This year, access to the app will also be extended to young adults with diabetes. “We have just started reaching out to young adult diabetes clinic teams in Ireland offering them an opportunity to receive some training, which will enable them to onboard their 16 to 25-year-olds living with diabetes.”
App features for families and clinicians Through the platform, families can develop a record of personalised information about their diabetes care, set reminders of their clinic appointments and receive invites to various family events, education workshops and more. DigiBete data shows that the education videos on the app have been viewed 7,673 times, and the quiz was completed by 863 users with an average score of 64%.
To date, 15 paediatric diabetes clinic teams have completed their training with 10 actively onboarding families. To see if your clinic is using the app, visit diabetes.ie
To access the app, contact your diabetes team for a code and registration instructions.
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Christina Hamilton Diabetes Nurse, Education and Support Coordinator, Diabetes Ireland
We are futureproofing the next generation of researchers by giving them practical handson experience and real-world training.
Working together for change: clinical trials transforming diabetes care across Ireland
Diabetes poses a significant public health challenge in Ireland, with many cases undiagnosed and limited data available. Tackling it requires coordinated action, quality care and robust research to guide clinical decisions and reduce societal and economic impacts.
Dr Christine Newman, Consultant Endocrinologist at University Hospital Galway, explains: “With the right infrastructure, partnerships and vision, Ireland can lead in diabetes research.”
Collaborative diabetes research network
Centred at the University of Galway and funded by the Health Research Board, the Diabetes Collaborative Clinical Trial Network (DC-CTN) is a national research network with members from across the island, positioned to facilitate change through research. Seamus Sreenan, consultant in diabetes at Connolly Hospital, Dublin, comments: “The network aims to bring healthcare professionals and key stakeholders from all backgrounds together, all committed to enhancing understanding and treatment of diabetes.”
Bringing together a national alliance of clinical sites, research facilities, public and patient involvement, industry partners, international collaborators and patient organisations, the network aims to drive meaningful change. Sharon Conway, Network Programme Manager, says: “We are creating a cohesive, strategic response to a growing public health crisis.”
Over the past three years, the DC-CTN has supported academic and industry trials in type 1 (D1 Now), type 2 (REDEFINE 2, REDEFINE 3, SYNCHRONISE) and gestational diabetes (GDM) (EMERGE), plus feasibility studies in new community care hubs. “The EMERGE trial has shown that treatment of gestational diabetes with metformin alongside
usual care is a safe and effective alternative treatment with benefits to both expectant mother and infant,” reports Professor Fidelma Dunne, Director of the Institute for Clinical Trials, University of Galway, with a follow-up study currently underway. Christine, study participant, says: “The opportunity to contribute to advancing care for expectant mothers with type 1 diabetes makes the experience deeply rewarding.”
By offering a single point of contact for sponsors and researchers, the network streamlines clinical trial activities — enhancing coordination, accelerating timelines and ensuring high-quality, ethical and robust trial design. By aligning research to the national diabetes clinical care programme, the network facilitates rapid translation of research findings into real-world clinical practice.
Public and patient involvement (PPI) People living with diabetes and supporting charities are shaping research through the DC-CTN, improving how diabetes research is designed and delivered. “Public and patient involvement helps us to not only ask the right research questions, but answer them in ways that truly benefit people living with diabetes,” explains Newman.
A recent study with the James Lind Alliance identified the top 10 research priorities for the type 1 diabetes community. “This research acts as a real roadmap to guide our efforts and conduct research in areas that matter most to people living with type 1 diabetes,” says Newman.
With strong community links, the network is urging involvement
from people of all backgrounds and ethnicities to get involved. “If clinical trials only include a narrow group, then findings are only relevant to that group,” says Conway. “We are helping to remove barriers not just to trial participation, but all PPI involvement, whether financial, cultural or logistical, so no one is excluded from advancing diabetes care,” Newman adds.
Nurturing the next generation
Through its educational remit, the network supports students and early researchers with robust infrastructure, mentorship and expertise — bridging academia and real-world impact.
“We are future-proofing the next generation of researchers by giving them practical hands-on experience and real-world training,” says Newman.
Initiatives like the summer research bursaries for students and Master’s scholarships, funded by industry partners and national bodies, are opening doors for researchers at all stages of their careers to help advance diabetes care.
Benefits to both patient care and industry
The network is also creating a stronger research environment that is more attractive for industry sponsors and delivering scientifically significant trials. “The network is open for business, innovation, collaboration and clinical discovery, making an impact not just in Galway but across the whole of Ireland,” says Conway. “By working together, we can bring world-leading innovation home and improve the lives of people living with diabetes.”
Sharon Conway Programme Manager, Diabetes Collaborative Clinical Trial Network
Sponsored by University of Galway
WRITTEN BY Bethany Cooper
Dr Christine Newman Consultant
Endocrinologist, Galway University Hospital
Professor Seamus Sreenan Consultant
Endocrinologist, Connolly Hospital, Dublin
Professor Fidelma Dunne Director, Institute for Clinical Trials, University of Galway
Systemic inequality and migraine management in Ireland
Migraine affects 750,000+ in Ireland. It’s often manageable but can become chronic, worsened by inequality, stigma and systemic vulnerability.
Ireland’s healthcare system faces significant challenges. The country has one of the lowest numbers of neurologists per capita in Europe, with less than half the recommended number of specialists.
Despite recognition of the importance of the primary care setting for treating headaches, there is a knowledge gap among healthcare providers. Worldwide, only four hours are committed to headache disorders in formal undergraduate medical training. This leads to a lack of understanding of the condition and frequent dismissal of patients’ concerns and symptoms, leaving the patient to self-manage.
Income inequality and migraine
Ireland faces deepening inequality, which significantly increases vulnerability to migraine and other chronic conditions.
Individuals with severe health conditions are nearly twice as likely to live in poverty. The unemployment rate in people living with migraine is two to four times the national average, placing individuals living with migraine at a socioeconomic disadvantage.
Proof of workplace stigma
In 2024, Migraine Ireland conducted a survey on people’s experience of migraine in their workplace. They faced bullying, written warnings, having to use sick leave or annual leave and being scrutinised by or sent to HR/ occupational health.
People living with migraine spend, on average, 31 hours a month alone in the dark, so withdrawal from life and poor mental health become major factors.
Tackling migraine health inequality
Disability equality must be a top policy priority. Tackling migraine and socioeconomic inequality requires a multifaceted approach:
• Expand the number of hours of formal education of primary headache disorders in the healthcare community.
• Expand the number of neurologists and headache specialists, particularly in underserved areas. Fund primary care to assess, diagnose and treat migraine early.
• Continue to integrate mental health and trauma care into chronic pain pathways.
• Address social determinants of health by working to tackle the broader social factors that contribute to health disparities, including poverty and discrimination.
• Enhance public awareness of migraine and its impact, reducing stigma and encouraging individuals to seek help.
Living with Chronic Pain in Ireland: The Hidden Struggle
The Impact in numbers
Daily Realities
How CPI Supports
Treatment makes a lifechanging difference to those living with
ADHD
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder which disrupts lives and acts as a barrier to potential. Seek a diagnosis to get proper treatment.
What is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?
Dr Ivan Murray: It’s a neurodevelopmental disorder that shapes how people process information. Broadly, it’s characterised by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity that can interfere with how a person functions in their day-to-day life. It typically starts presenting in childhood.
Does ADHD affect males more than females?
Dr Ivan Murray: That used to be the thinking because there are physical components to ADHD, which boys often display that are easier to spot, including over-activity and impulsivity. However, there are also psychological components — including disorganisation, inattention and distractibility — which are easier to miss and more likely to manifest in girls. Thankfully, more girls and women are coming forward for diagnosis now.
What can be the impact if ADHD remains undiagnosed?
Dr Lisa Maloney: ADHD can be a barrier to potential because those with the condition can find it difficult to function under increased pressure, more responsibility or changing environments. That can lead to anxiety and depression, higher risks of academic failure, relationship difficulties and emotional challenges that can persist into adulthood. People with ADHD are also more likely to develop substance misuse disorders. Thankfully, life-changing treatment is available.
What are some treatment examples?
Dr Lisa Maloney: We can discuss options with patients, including medication. We also offer personalised non-medication strategies. For example, we have an occupational therapist who helps develop time management and organisational skills; psychologists to support those with more complex mental health needs; a study skills coach to help improve concentration and memory; life coaches who can help patients set and reach personal goals; and a mindfulness therapist.
Is 2025 a promising year for people with ADHD?
Dr Ivan Murray: Yes. We’ve seen a difference in our clinic because there’s more awareness now. There’s also far less stigma, particularly among young people. Plus, there are always advances in medications and treatment strategies, which can make a real difference for patients. So, if you are concerned, our advice is: get a diagnosis.
Dr Lisa Maloney Senior Occupational Therapist, Co-Founder and Executive Director,
Dr Ivan Murray Medical Director, Consultant Psychiatrist and ADHD Specialist, Neuromed
Naomi Thornton Migraine Patient Support Team, Migraine Ireland
Deirdre Ní Mhórdha Migraine Patient Support Team, Migraine Ireland
Neuromed
Functional dyspepsia: a common yet under-recognised gut issue
Functional dyspepsia (FD) is the presence of uncomfortable digestive symptoms without an identifiable cause.
Many people suffer continuously, typically after eating. Your GP may refer you to a gastroenterologist for further investigation. The common finding of FD is that endoscopic investigation does not identify anything sinister.
Bothersome symptoms of functional dyspepsia
These symptoms1 include:
• Upper belly (abdominal) pain that ranges from mild to severe and might feel like burning
• Feeling sick (nausea)
• Belching (burping)
• Bloating
• An uncomfortable feeling of being full after eating regular-sized meals
A surprisingly common condition
A study of over 2,200 patients attending an Irish gastroenterology clinic found that around 21% of those with functional digestive disorders were diagnosed with FD.2
Although not life-threatening, FD can interfere significantly with daily life and work. Often, sufferers feel isolated and frustrated in finding solutions that provide relief. The condition is highly variable between
Specialist clinic leads with collaborative care for chronic pain
Millions of people worldwide unnecessarily suffer from untreated chronic pain, thought to affect around 20% of the global population. No one should have to suffer in silence.
Rindividuals and requires medical advice to develop a plan to manage.
Causes and treatment
The exact cause is unknown, but several factors may contribute, such as a sensitive digestive system; stress or anxiety; and lifestyle factors (eg. smoking or heavy meals). FD is more common in adults and slightly more common in women.
Treatment is typically a combination of lifestyle and medical management. Many sufferers benefit from small changes, such as:
• Eating smaller meals more often
• Avoiding late-night eating and rich foods
• Reducing alcohol and caffeine
• Managing stress and sleep
Newer medical treatments have recently become available. If you’re suffering from FD, talk to your doctor. With the right support, many people find effective ways to manage this condition and improve their quality of life.
ecognising the need for a dedicated specialist pain management, Prof Oleg Ilyinski started with a vision to provide effective evidence-based treatment. Through the years, he built a collaborative team: joining him are Prof Wajid Khan, and subsequently Dr Sven Sommer. The clinic now has a wide network of medical professionals dedicated to providing safe and effective pain management.
A clinic built on a shared vision
“A lot of patients suffer from chronic pain and don’t know the cause, what treatment options are available and where to get it,” says Prof Ilyinski. “The gap in access and continuity of care is what drove us to build a more collaborative, multidisciplinary service. We work closely with neurology, spinal surgery,
rheumatology and other specialists whenever needed to facilitate the most appropriate management.”
Evidence-based pain management
The clinic sees a wide range of chronic conditions, from head and neck, back and facial pain to degenerative issues and fibromyalgia. Most patients are referred by their general practitioner or other specialists. “At the initial consultation, we build a relationship with the patient, set realistic expectations and start the pain management planning process,” says Prof Ilyinski. “We don’t just treat the pain; we address the person behind it,” adds Prof Khan.
The clinic utilises clinically approved management options, including medications such as anaesthetic agents, steroids and
DYSPEPSIA
botox; surgical interventions such as nerve blocks, pulse radiofrequency, neuromodulation with implantable devices; and regenerative medical techniques. These are done together with physiotherapy and psychology. “Each patient is met with a personalised approach, individualised to their specific needs,” continues Prof Khan.
Improving care and education
Ireland remains the only EU country to officially recognise pain medicine as a medical specialty. Despite this progress, challenges in pain management persist. Prof Ilyinski, Prof Khan and Dr Sommer aim to continue raising greater awareness and improving the education and management of chronic pain across Ireland.
“There’s a lack of education around pain, both in the medical community and the public,” says Prof Khan. Yet, using well-established, evidencebased treatments with proven results, the clinic is improving the quality of life of thousands of people living in Ireland, facilitating a much-needed resource for those living with chronic pain.
“We can’t promise a cure, but no one should have to suffer in silence,” concludes Prof Ilyinski. “There are always ways we can help.” With over 7,000 patients treated to date, feedback has been extremely positive.
full after eating (postprandial fullness)
Nausea with vomiting Heartburn Belching
Burning sensation in the epigastrium Bloated stomach (bloating) –subjective feeling of increased gas in the upper abdomen
Nausea (feeling like vomiting)
Prof Oleg Ilyinski Consultant in Pain Medicine, UCD Associate Clinical Professor
Dr Wajid Khan Consultant in Pain Medicine, UCD Assistant Clinical Professor
Sponsored by Dublin Pain Clinic
References:
1. Guts UK Charity. Functional Dyspepsia.
2. Kelly, P. 2024. Irish Pharmacist. The complexities of gut health. Pictograms of typical complaints of functional dyspepsia.
Scan the QR code to help you and your doctor identify your most bothersome symptoms.
Sponsored by
Ms Clara Ali Ghalib Consultant, Athena
WRITTEN BY
Bethany Cooper
Take control of Overactive Bladder today
Visit oab.ie for practical tips and downloadable resources to help you manage Overactive Bladder more effectively.
With its refreshed look, OAB.ie remains your trusted companion, offering reliable guidance and tools to help you manage your symptoms.
Overactive bladder:
understanding a common, often ignored
condition
Overactive bladder (OAB) is a prevalent but frequently underdiagnosed medical condition impacting an estimated 17% of the adult population in Europe.
Fardod O’Kelly Consultant Urologist, Clinical Associate Professor UCD & Senior Lecturer in Postgraduate Surgical Education, RCSI
Defined by the International Continence Society as ‘urgency, with or without urge incontinence, usually accompanied by frequency and nocturia,’ OAB disrupts daily routines and quality of life for millions. This condition also affects approximately 5–10% of children, may occur with enuresis (bedwetting) and is often part of an overall complex of dysfunction with both voiding and stooling. Many childhood cases resolve and can respond well to bladder retraining, behavioural therapy and physiotherapy, prior to resorting to medication.
Understanding overactive bladder symptoms
Urgency — the sudden, compelling need to urinate — is the cornerstone
symptom of OAB. This may be accompanied by urge incontinence, where leakage occurs before reaching the bathroom, as well as frequent urination and nocturia (waking up at night to urinate). Notably, individuals may also experience mixed urinary incontinence, which includes both urge and stress symptoms, though this is not classified under OAB syndrome.
OAB typically results from detrusor overactivity, where the bladder muscle contracts involuntarily during filling. This can stem from neurological conditions or be idiopathic (without an identifiable cause). Diagnosis does not always require invasive testing; however, urodynamic studies, cystoscopy (camera into the bladder) or imaging may be necessary if symptoms
are severe, atypical or resistant to treatment.
Approaches to OAB treatment
Conservative management is the first line of treatment and includes lifestyle modifications such as reducing fluid intake, avoiding caffeine and alcohol and practising bladder retraining. When behavioural strategies fall short, pharmacological therapies — particularly antimuscarinic agents — are employed.
Antimuscarinic drugs can help control bladder contractions but often lead to side effects like dry mouth, constipation and drowsiness, contributing to low patient adherence. There are also newer treatments that offer alternative mechanisms with potentially fewer side effects. In refractory cases, advanced options like botulinum toxin injections or sacral nerve stimulation are considered. These approaches have shown promising outcomes, though cost and access remain challenges.
Timely care can improve quality of life
With effective treatments available, awareness and timely diagnosis of OAB are crucial. Individuals experiencing symptoms should consult their healthcare provider. Addressing this condition can significantly improve physical comfort, emotional wellbeing and daily functioning.
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Cystitis: why treating the bowel could be the key to a healthier
bladder
Urinary tract infections (UTIs), including cystitis, are among the most common bacterial infections in women worldwide. Unfortunately, for many, it can become a frustrating and painful cycle.
More than half of all women will experience at least one UTI in their lifetime, and up to 30% will go on to have another. Antibiotics are the primary treatment for UTIs. However, their overuse is contributing to a growing global health crisis: antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
AMR threat demands better UTI management
Repeated antibiotic exposure promotes the spread of multidrug-resistant bacteria. The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified AMR as one of the top 10 global public health threats. By 2050, antimicrobial-resistant infections could claim more lives annually than cancer — a sobering reminder of the urgent need to rethink how we manage recurrent UTIs.
Why the bowel matters in bladder health
The connection between the bowel and bladder might not be immediately obvious, but it is crucial to understanding and preventing UTIs. Over 90% of uncomplicated cystitis cases are caused by pathogens, most commonly Escherichia coli (E. coli), which naturally reside in the bowel. These bacteria can migrate from the anal area to the urinary tract, where they can cause a cystitis infection.
This movement of bacteria highlights why targeting the bowel — rather than just the bladder — can be an effective strategy for preventing cystitis.
A unique, antibiotic-free strategy
One innovative approach involves the use of mucoprotectants — substances that form a protective barrier in the gut, helping to reduce the adhesion of harmful bacteria to the intestinal wall. Xyloglucan, a plant-derived mucoprotectant, works in this way to limit the growth and migration of E. coli from the bowel to the urinary tract.
Supporting natural ingredients — hibiscus and propolis — work in the bladder by mildly acidifying the urine, making it less hospitable to bacteria. This helps the body clear the infection and reduces urinary discomfort. When combined, these ingredients have been shown to relieve symptoms and reduce the risk of recurrent cystitis.
Benefits of novel UTI approach
These benefits are supported by the 2025 European Association of Urology (EAU) Guidelines, which state: ‘A combination of xyloglucan, hibiscus and propolis is effective in relieving acute cystitis symptoms and preventing recurrence.’
By also focusing on the gut, this novel treatment can help break the cycle of recurrent UTIs and reduce the use of antibiotics. For women seeking a new way forward, science is pointing to the bowel as a smart place to start.
For the Control and Prevention of UTIs
Niamh Elliott Medical Manager, Pamex Limited
Utipro® Plus AF is a Class IIa Medical Device for the control and prevention of UTIs. It contains xyloglucan, hibiscus, and propolis — the combination recognised in the latest European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines. Distributed in Ireland by Pamex Limited.
Read more at Utipro.ie
Sponsored by Pamex
Exploring safe and effective care for older adults
accessing emergency care
Emergency departments (EDs) around the world are facing huge challenges due to a rapid increase in the number of patients attending, especially older adults.
Many of these older adults have multiple long-term or chronic health issues, which makes their care needs more complex. Unfortunately, the way healthcare is set up right now often focuses on treating one illness at a time. This approach doesn’t work well for older adults who often have several health problems at once. They need more comprehensive care, but the current ED set-up isn’t designed to handle that effectively.
Joined-up support prevents readmissions
To address this problem, researchers at the Ageing Research Centre, part of the Health Research Institute at the University of Limerick (UL), have engaged with older adults and those important to them, clinicians and policy makers, as well as other research groups nationally and internationally. Evidence demonstrates that unresolved health issues and a lack of, or disjointed, community services often lead to older adults returning to the ED soon after their first visit. After leaving the ED, older adults often struggle at home because they don’t have enough practical support or easy access to health information.
Age-attuned ED care works
The research consortium at UL has addressed these issues in a number of ways. They have led several studies that show that comprehensive, age-attuned care in the ED can improve older adults’ experiences of their care in the ED and their health outcomes. The studies also aim to ensure that the healthcare system benefits as well. Furthermore, if patients receive support and follow-up care after they leave the ED, they are more likely to stay healthier and avoid returning to the ED. This approach helps both the patients and the healthcare system overall.
Connected care improves outcomes
This research highlights how important it is to have connected care, good communication and home-based health services to help older adults manage their long-term health issues better. These findings align with global efforts to improve care for older adults, showing that working together and providing support at home can lead to better health outcomes.
Living well with heart failure: small actions, big impact
A diagnosis of heart failure can feel overwhelming, but with the right support and information, it is possible to live well.
Heart failure doesn’t mean your entire heart is failing. It means your heart isn’t pumping blood as well as it should, which can lead to fluid building up. This can cause symptoms like breathlessness, tiredness or sudden weight gain.
Telephone-based heart support
The Irish Heart Foundation’s Heart Connect Service offers telephone-based support that complements your usual medical care. It helps people cope with the emotional side of heart failure and gives simple, practical advice on managing symptoms, taking medications, eating well and knowing when to ask for help. It also helps people find local and community support.
Structured care pathways for heart failure
As healthcare pathways improve, your healthcare team may depend on how stable your condition is. Those most unwell may start in hospital, then move to specialist clinics, integrated care and finally, to GP care. If you’ve been diagnosed with heart failure but haven’t attended a heart failure clinic, ask your GP about a referral to your local clinic or Integrated Care Hub for a full review of your condition and treatment. The Chronic Disease Management Programme offers six-monthly check-ups at the GP practice for those with a medical card or GP visit card. This service is for adults over 45 with certain conditions, including heart failure. These structured visits support early detection and long-term health.
Day-to-day self-checks and symptom awareness
That’s where the Irish Heart Foundation’s ‘Take 3 Beats’ tool comes in. It’s a simple way to stay on top of your heart failure. Each day, ask yourself: (1) Have I taken my medication? (2) Have I weighed myself? (3) How am I feeling today?
Noticing changes in your weight, breathing, energy or mood can help catch early signs of fluid buildup. If you’re concerned, call your heart failure clinic or GP. Acting early can help prevent hospital stays and keep you well. You’re not alone. With tools like Take 3 Beats and support from the Irish Heart Foundation’s Heart Connect Service, living well with heart failure isn’t just possible; it’s the goal.
If you have psoriasis, you could be at risk of developing arthritis
Learn about HPOS (HIPPOCRATES Prospective Observational Study), an online study which aims to monitor the progression of psoriasis to psoriatic arthritis (PsA).
The HPOS study hopes to find ways to prevent the development of PsA in the future. Participants who are over 18 and diagnosed with psoriasis, but not with PsA, are asked to complete questionnaires every six months.
Monitored psoriasis study recruitment
Participants’ progress is monitored for three years. Those who develop potential symptoms of PsA are informed about their risks and receive a recommendation to seek appropriate medical assessment. Some participants might be invited to take part in optional remote blood sampling for studying biomarkers. More than 1,900 Irish people with psoriasis have already registered to participate in HPOS, and the study is still recruiting.
Psoriasis, PsA risks and underdiagnosis
Psoriasis affects around 60 million people worldwide, and at least 73,000 individuals in Ireland. It is a chronic, genetic, inflammatory skin condition, affecting both sexes equally. There is currently no cure. Psoriasis also increases the risk of developing PsA, with about 30% of psoriasis patients developing PsA. PsA symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, loss of joint function, lack of sleep and general fatigue. A diagnosis is often delayed due to a lack of awareness about PsA.
EU PsA research partnership
HIPPOCRATES is an ambitious European public-private partnership. Its goals are: the identification of specific PsA disease biomarkers to aid early diagnosis and prediction of which people with psoriasis will develop PsA; the monitoring and prevention of PsA disease progression; and the identification of personalised treatments. The team is made up of 27 organisations in 11 countries. These include universities, pharmaceutical industry partners, small companies and patient representative organisations, all with the aligned ambition of addressing the key challenges of PsA. Led by investigators at University College Dublin, HIPPOCRATES is a five-year project which started in 2021 and received €22.4 million in funding from the Innovative Medicines Initiative (IMI; recently renamed IHI). This project has received funding from the Innovative Medicines Initiative 2 Joint Undertaking (JU) under grant agreement No 101007757. The JU receives support from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme and EFPIA.
Rose Galvin Professor of Physiotherapy,
Sponsored by Health Research Institute, University of Limerick
University of Limerick
Norma Caples Advanced Nurse Practitioner, Heart Failure
Mairead Lehane Advanced Nurse Practitioner, Cardiovascular Integrated Care Cork
Oat-based products to help manage very dry, itchy, eczema-prone
skin
A professional skincare consultant advises on products specifically formulated for the management of very dry, itchy and eczema-prone skin, including highly effective oat-based formulas.
Dry, itchy and eczema-prone skin can affect any age group and can be made even worse by extreme weather conditions, highly polluted areas and chemical irritants.
Chronic dry skin impacts wellbeing
According to Paula Moriarty, Professional Skincare Consultant with Kenvue, dry skin is typically caused by a lack of sebum, the natural oil that helps our skin to retain moisture. “When the skin doesn’t produce enough sebum, the outer layer loses water and becomes dry, tight, itchy and sometimes flaky,” she explains. “This can be extremely difficult to manage.” Although often not a sign of anything serious, chronic dry skin can affect a person’s sleep, confidence and quality of life. Finding the right products is essential for effective skin management.
Products to help manage dry skin
which results in flare-ups of red and itchy skin, alongside periods of remission. “Emollients aren’t just moisturisers; they’re specially formulated to treat dry, eczema-prone skin by deeply hydrating and restoring the skin barrier and should be applied generously several times a day.” Look for gentle, fragrance-free products and avoid irritants and detergents. Products with ceramides are extremely beneficial for restoring the skin’s natural lipid composition, Moriarty recommends.
Look for gentle, fragrance-free products and avoid irritants and detergents.
According to Moriarty, managing very dry skin is all about consistency, using gentle, effective products, which could be moisturisers, lotions, creams, ointments or soap substitutes. Products are typically tailored to the three main dry skin types: normal to dry skin; dry and tight skin; and very dry, itchy and eczema-prone skin. Eczema is an extremely common dry skin condition,
Oat-based moisturisers
Aveeno’s range of skin care products is specially formulated for very dry and eczema-prone skin, using oats as their key ingredient, a natural remedy rooted in traditional holistic medicine. Moriarty explains: “Oats help remove impurities, calm itching and protect the skin, restoring the natural pH while preserving skin barrier function.” She adds: “Aveeno skin relief moisturising lotion with shea butter hydrates for up to 72 hours, using a unique triple oat complex to support the skin barrier.” For those with more severe skin complaints, Aveeno Dermexa is available exclusively in pharmacies, which helps to restore skin ceramides and offers deep and lasting relief. Don’t suffer in silence when there are products on the market designed specifically for very dry, itchy and eczema-prone skin.
Paula Moriarty Professional Skincare Consultant, Kenvue
WRITTEN BY
Bethany Cooper
Managing chronic pain with the help of an immersive VR experience
Virtual reality (VR) therapy provides a promising, cost-effective way to support patients with chronic pain issues, according to Niall O’Driscoll, CEO of immersive therapeutic platform ShineVR.
Can you put Ireland’s chronic pain crisis into perspective?
One study, involving our partner Professor Brian McGuire of the Centre of Pain Research in Galway, says that chronic pain affects 35% of the population at an annual cost of €5.34 billion, which is more than cancer and heart disease combined. This isn’t unique to Ireland. Globally, chronic pain is a huge, complex, debilitating challenge. Plus, longterm treatment with opioids is problematic.
Are there other pain management options?
Already approved by the FDA in the US, studies have shown that VR can reduce a person’s perception of pain and the level of pharmacological input they need. So, we are launching the world’s first scalable, personalised, AI VR therapy platform specifically to support people living with chronic pain. This Chronic Pain Distraction programme, which follows our Stress Reduction programme, is designed to give immediate relief to patients suffering from chronic pain; this will be followed by CBT-based programmes for longer-term relief.
How does VR therapy work?
It’s simple to use. Wearing a VR headset, patients can choose from different immersive environments, such as a lakeside scene, a meadow and a forest. They can then join various activities, including diaphragmatic breathing exercises — where patients can see a visual representation of their own breath — to reduce the physiological signs of
stress. Essentially, the part of the brain that would normally be receiving pain signals is distracted by an immersive audiovisual experience.
What have the results been?
We piloted the technology with a chronic pain patient. It resulted in no pain perception during use and an average of 33% reduction in pain perception after use over a year. We’ve also been working with Ann Marie Kiernan, a pain management expert, on a VR therapy institutional trial with around 400 patients, where we are seeing pain scores reduce by nearly 50% as measured before and after use.
What are the cost benefits?
Healthcare providers can offer access to VR therapy for €1.88 per week, versus €8.16 per week for standard medication. To complement our inpatient use of a VR headset, we’ve also designed a cost-effective ‘Smartphone VR’ version for outpatient use.
What is the future of VR therapy for chronic pain?
We’re creating a series of VR cognitive behavioural therapy-style courses that train people to manage pain more effectively. We’re also using AI to personalise the VR experience for each patient. As we roll the solution out, we work closely with healthcare providers to find ways to improve it.
Disability equality must be a top policy priority.
~Naomi
Thornton, Migraine Patient Support Team, Migraine Ireland
Niall O’Driscoll CEO, ShineVR
Sponsored by ShineVR
WRITTEN BY Tony Greenway
Relief from hay fever starts here: resources, tips and expert help
Hay fever affects one in five people in Ireland and can seriously impact those with asthma. Learn how to manage symptoms and reduce your exposure this pollen season.
Allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever, is a condition where the nasal passages become inflamed due to exposure to normally harmless substances like pollen, dust mites or pet fur. Over 80% of people with asthma have hay fever, and the substances that trigger hay fever can provoke asthma flare-ups. Moreover, hay fever increases the risk of developing asthma.
Common hay fever symptoms
Symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion or a runny nose, red or watery eyes and an itchy throat or ears. Post-nasal drip, headaches, fatigue and a reduced sense of smell or taste are also frequent complaints. These can impact sleep, concentration and overall quality of life. For athletes, those working outdoors and students taking exams at this time of year, hay fever can be particularly troublesome.
Managing hay fever
Key tips for reducing exposure to allergens include:
• Avoid exercising outdoors when the pollen count is high.
• Shower, wash your hair and change your clothes if you have been outside for an extended period.
• Wear wraparound sunglasses to avoid pollen getting in your eyes. Splash your eyes with cold water to help flush out pollen and soothe them.
• Minimise contact with pets that have been outside.
• Try to stay away from grassy areas and avoid mowing the lawn.
• Avoid drying clothes outside.
• Apply a gel/barrier to the nostrils to prevent pollen from settling in the nose.
• Discuss treatments for hay fever with your GP or pharmacist.
The Asthma Society of Ireland has a range of resources available at asthma. ie, as well as a three-day pollen forecast to help you stay one step ahead of hay fever this summer. A dedicated nurse specialist is ready to answer any questions you might have about asthma and hay fever, providing advice about symptoms, management and potential treatments.
Mary McDonald, Patient Services Manager, Asthma Society of Ireland
Enhancing health through community-based care
The HSE Enhanced Community Care (ECC) Programme was launched across Ireland in 2021 with a view to delivering a more sustainable, community-focused model of healthcare for patients, including patients with chronic disease.
What care is being delivered in the community?
The Irish Health Service is supporting patients to prevent and improve their management of chronic disease (ie. type 2 diabetes, COPD and asthma and cardiovascular conditions, including atrial fibrillation, heart failure) in their community through services delivered by new Community Specialist teams for chronic disease. Twenty-six community-based chronic disease specialist multidisciplinary teams have been established across the country. Each team is led by Integrated Care Consultants in diabetes, respiratory and cardiology.
This service adds an extra layer of care in the community. It supports GPs’ care for people with more complex chronic disease and multimorbidity, by giving patients timely access to specialist advice and intervention, as close to home as possible. In 2024, over 357,000 patient contacts were recorded across 26 community specialist teams in Ireland.
Move to person-centred care
These services drive early diagnosis, early intervention, self-management support and proactive management of chronic disease to enable patients to live well in the community and to support delivery of care at the lowest clinically appropriate level of complexity in line with the Sláintecare vision.
These multidisciplinary CD-CSTs with expertise across cardiology, respiratory and endocrinology can flex to meet the specific clinical needs of each patient. For people living with a chronic illness, it means getting the support they need through timely diagnosis, treatment and support to manage their health. Our focus is on keeping patients well in their own communities and providing care in the right place and time that meets their clinical needs, in line with the Sláintecare vision. These multidisciplinary teams with expertise in cardiology, respiratory and endocrinology can flex to meet the specific clinical needs of each patient.
The HSE remains committed to delivering community-based integrated care and supporting people to live well across communities.
How do patients access these teams?
If you are diagnosed with cardiovascular disease, COPD, asthma and/or type 2 diabetes, talk to your GP about the Chronic Disease Management Programme. To learn more, search ‘HSE Chronic Disease Management Programme.’
Chronic disease specialist multidisciplinary teams can be accessed via GP referral in line with the national referral guidelines.
Ireland rethinks obesity through policy, prevention and patient care
Ireland has one of the highest rates of obesity in Europe. Living with obesity increases the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes, causing concern across healthcare.
The increase in the number of people living with obesity, both in Ireland and globally, impacts the economy as well. Despite the challenges of obesity being widely acknowledged, this chronic, progressive disease doesn’t receive the same level of diagnosis, medical care or policy attention as other long-term conditions, leaving those affected with limited support.
Obesity risk factors and complexity
Obesity is Ireland’s slowly unfolding health crisis. Yet, obesity — defined by the World Health Organization as abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that presents a risk to health and a body mass index (BMI) equal to or greater than 30 — is still seen by many as the result of individual choice.
“Obesity is a complex condition,” says Khalil Asmar, Head of Diabetes and Obesity for Northern Europe at Lilly. “Despite all efforts, people with obesity can find weight loss difficult to achieve and maintain. This is influenced by multiple factors: biological, genetic, behavioural, environmental, social and cultural.”
Promoting obesity prevention in Ireland
The Government and Health Service Executive have focused on prevention, through the ‘A Healthy Weight for Ireland – Obesity Policy and Action Plan 2016–2025.’ This approach aims to help people achieve better health through community-based health promotion programmes, training and enhanced detection and referrals at the primary care level. However, these measures are yet to have the desired impact and don’t support those already living with obesity.
and Commercial Manager for Ireland at Lilly. “Some feel shame around their weight and don’t seek help. They need to feel confident that they can engage with healthcare providers and be offered options for support,” he adds.
Clinical guidelines on obesity management
Supporting the 21% of adults in Ireland suffering from obesity is essential to reduce pressure on the healthcare system and boost economic productivity. However, access to evidence-informed care — whether medical, support with physical activity or psychological interventions — can be challenging due to limited capacity and long waiting lists.
The Clinical Practice Guidelines highlight the need to shift the focus of obesity management toward improving patient-centred health outcomes and social and economic participation rather than weight loss alone. This can be best achieved by resourcing and fully implementing the Model of Care for the Management of Adult Overweight and Obesity.
People living with obesity deserve comprehensive care, in the same way that care would be provided for other chronic conditions.
Solving the obesity crisis begins with tackling some misguided views. “A lot of people think, just eat less and do more exercise,” says Asmar. “Within both the Government and the healthcare system, many don’t see obesity as a complex condition and view it as a result of personal choices and personal responsibility. We need to reframe this narrative.”
Changing public attitudes and addressing the shame and stigma faced by people living with obesity is imperative. “We don’t want people living with obesity to be blamed,” shares Dermot McNamara, Country Lead
“Obesity can lead to health complications and lower quality of life,” says Asmar. “People living with obesity deserve comprehensive care, in the same way that care would be provided for other chronic conditions.”
Holistic obesity care is needed
Lilly is calling for the Government to implement a holistic strategy that encompasses prevention, education, and adequate services for people who are already overweight or have obesity. “People living with obesity need a core level of support from doctors,” says McNamara. “We need more education for healthcare professionals on how to talk about weight with patients in an empathetic and constructive way. We need to reframe the narrative around obesity. It isn’t an individual problem; it’s a societal problem.”
Collaboration is essential to achieve this. Government, healthcare professionals and non-governmental organisations must work together to deliver better healthcare outcomes for those living with obesity today and prevent future generations from suffering from obesity. If they’re successful, Ireland could have a healthier future.
Khalil Asmar Head of Diabetes & Obesity for Northern Europe, Lilly Ireland
Dermot McNamara Country Lead & Commercial Manager for Ireland, Lilly Ireland