To Health and Life Editors, Producers, Reporters

Media Advisory

First of its kind program aims to break the chronic pain cycle

What: A world-first pain program that aims to stop pain from becoming chronic after surgery is being pioneered at Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network. Further details will be provided at a media availability session.

When: Thursday, Nov. 13 at 1:30 pm EST

Where: Toronto General Hospital, Pain Clinic, Peter Munk Bldg., 585 University Ave., 13th Floor. Please take the Peter Munk Elevators from the lobby of the Peter Munk Bldg. to the 13th floor Pain Clinic. Parking is available under the Peter Munk Building, car access off Gerrard Street, just east of University Ave. Take the Parking elevator to the Peter Munk Lobby and then transfer to adjacent building elevators to get to the 13th floor, Peter Munk Building.

Note: On the 13th floor, look for the Tropical Disease Unit with a large stuffed lion and giraffe. This pain clinic is so new, we do not have yet have signage for it.

Who will be there: a diverse team of clinicians who specialize in pain control, including a psychologist, physiotherapist and patients who have benefitted from the program.

Why is this important? As many as 30% of surgical patients develop chronic pain after surgery, and are at an increased risk for long-term opioid use. 50% of patients after major surgery are discharged from hospital with a prescription for opioids. Breaking the pain cycle will help these and future patients who need new strategies for their pain.

Media Contact:Alex RadkewyczToronto General Hospital, Public AffairsTel: 416 – 340 – 3895Email: [email protected]UHN Main Media Line: 416 – 340 - 4636

Ana GajicUniversity Health Network Public AffairsTel: 416 – 340 – 4011Email: [email protected]