Chronic pain in the EU

2.9.2016

Question for written answer E-006671-16
to the Commission
Rule 130
Marlene Mizzi (S&D)

Chronic pain affects around 20% of the adult population in Europe, but it remains poorly managed and under-treated, affecting not only the patients, but also society as a whole.

1. Can the Commission confirm if chronic pain is treated as a priority in the EU, so that it can ensure better diagnosis, fund research, adapt health insurance and guarantee that EU citizens with chronic pain get the treatment they need?

2. Can the Commission clarify what action it is taking to increase public awareness of chronic pain, and explain how it supports information campaigns aimed at EU citizens?

3. Does the Commission have any information on which Member States have recognised chronic pain as an illness?