[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 141 (Tuesday, September 29, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1381]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    RECOGNIZING PAIN AWARENESS MONTH

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                         HON. KATHLEEN M. RICE

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 29, 2015

   Miss RICE of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of 
Pain Awareness Month, which we observe each September to raise 
awareness for those suffering from chronic pain and to promote a 
greater understanding of pain management and treatment.
   Pain is not only a debilitating medical condition that affects 
millions of Americans each day--it is also a serious strain on our 
economy and workforce. With an estimated annual cost of nearly $600 
billion in treatment and lost wages, our nation spends more money 
treating pain than almost any other disease, including heart disease, 
diabetes and cancer.
   Unfortunately, chronic pain has long been viewed as a medical 
condition that can be cured with just a pen and prescription pad. But 
as we've learned over the past decade, this is simply not the case. 
Rather than curing or comforting individuals who suffer from chronic 
pain, the over-use of prescription pain medication can often lead those 
individuals only to deeper pain and darker despair. It's time that we 
as a country treat pain as the complex medical issue that it truly is 
and pursue real, lasting solutions for all those who suffer from it.
   In an age of unprecedented medical advancements, it's absolutely 
critical that we begin making stronger investments in effective and 
safe methods of pain management and treatment, so that those suffering 
from chronic pain can be freed from their burden, return to work, 
support their families and live full, independent lives.
   While Pain Awareness Month reminds us of the devastating toll that 
pain takes on so many Americans, their families and our economy, it's 
important that this month also serve as a catalyst for swift and 
comprehensive action to help those who are suffering right now in my 
district and in every district across the country.

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