American Pain Society to Hold Annual Scientific Meeting, May 5- 9, in Vancouver

4/29/2004

From: Chuck Weber, 847-705-1802 or cpweber@weberpr.com for the American Pain Society

News Advisory:

Media are invited to cover the proceedings of the 23rd Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Pain Society (APS), May 5-9, at the Vancouver Convention and Exhibition Centre. This year, the APS meeting will be held as a joint scientific conference with the Canadian Pain Society. APS is the leading multidisciplinary professional society in the United States dedicated to advancing pain-related research, education, treatment and team-oriented professional practice.

Treatment Strategies for Pediatric Pain

A full-day symposium, "Changing the Face of Pediatric Pain" will be held on May 5, and will cover a variety of topics on research, clinical management and social and psychological support for children with chronic pain. Three noteworthy sessions are: "Teaching Parents to Help Children in Pain," Pain in Sickle-cell Disease" and "Defining Outcomes for Clinical Trials in Pediatric Pain."

Opioid Therapy at the Crossroads

Several scientific presentations will review the latest scientific, clinical, social and policy developments related to opioid therapy for chronic pain. Despite growing evidence from controlled trials supporting use of these medications for severe chronic pain, they have been shrouded in controversy due to concerns about abuse potential, regulatory sanctions and confusion between physical dependence and addiction. The focus at the APS meeting will be on providing guidance to physicians, patients and policy makers regarding appropriate use of opioid medications.

Media Registration

Journalists interested in attending the meeting should contact Chuck Weber to receive media credentials and advance registration. He can be reached at (847) 705-1802 until May 3, and at 847-217-7282, May 4-9, or anytime at cpweber@weberpr.com.

The press room at the APS meeting will be open May 5-8 from 8:30 to 5 p.m.