The value of the International Association for the Study of Pain to developing countries

Abstract

Since it was founded, the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) has been at the forefront of improving pain research, education, and effective pain management in both developed and developing countries. As IASP activities progressed, major differences between the practice of pain management, education, and research in developed countries compared with developing countries were identified. This led to areas of focus by IASP that included pain education to address poor knowledge of pain assessment and treatment, prioritization of pain management by governments and official national legislation and programs, and availability of pain treatments (especially potent analgesics). A few pioneering IASP members from developing countries in the early years encouraged more multidisciplinary professionals to join IASP and attend conferences. Inauguration of national and regional chapters was also encouraged, and regular continuing medical education programs were held, especially on topics from IASP conferences and global pain events. Many IASP chapters in developing countries have established collaborations with groups from developed countries, whereas IASP also implemented other innovative approaches including the developing countries working group, educational grants, pain camps, and multidisciplinary pain hubs with toolkits to develop pain experts for regions in the developing world. Thus, the influence of IASP in many developing countries has had a multiplier effect on the progress made in effective pain management, education, and research. Nonetheless, challenges remain and include better integration of pain management, education, and research in national health systems and academic programs for health professionals.