Living ‘without pain and disability’

Australia’s health system must do more to address the growing  burden of musculoskeletal conditions, like lower back pain and osteoarthritis, which is now the second leading cause of disease burden in Australasia.

The latest Global Burden of Diseases study revealed last December, highlights non communicable diseases, particularly musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions, as an emerging global issue that must be addressed in the coming decade.

The study was conducted by a consortium of international experts including University of Washington Seattle, the School of Public Health, University of Queensland and the World Health Organisation.

A dedicated team led by Professor Lyn March, of the University of Sydney, have been working for the past four years to identify all the studies of arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions from around the world.

Professor March highlighted the new study, which uses the most comprehensive methodology to date, provides definitive evidence that musculoskeletal (MSK) health should be given the same policy and resource priority as cancer, mental health and cardiovascular disease.

“This study provides the clearest evidence to date of the huge and growing burden on the health of Australians from musculoskeletal conditions,” Professor March said.

Results showed that lower back pain is the leading cause of disability and osteoarthritis was one of the fastest growing conditions, and revealed in Australasia, musculoskeletal conditions accounted for 15.3% of the total burden of death and disability, just behind cancer at 16.2% and ahead of heart disease (13.8%) and mental health and substance abuse (13%).

“We need clear and urgent action from our state and federal governments to improve prevention and management of musculoskeletal conditions to keep  people moving and living without pain and disability, which  is critical as our population  ages,” Professor March said.

Ainslie Cahill, Arthritis Australia chief executive, representing the voice of Australians living with arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions welcomed the data and echoed the call for urgent action.

“Arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions are by far the leading causes of disability and chronic pain in Australia. The focus must be on preventing such debilitating effects. We want to see equitable access to effective treatments and professional support for all Australians struggling with arthritis no matter where they live,” Mr Ainslie said.