Did you know, 100 million Americans struggle with chronic pain? That's more than cancer, diabetes and heart disease combined.
Recently, a documentary titled "Pain Matters" was created that follows the stories of six people living with chronic pain and will air beginning Nov. 16, 2013 on the Discovery Channel.
"We hope that the personal stories told through 'Pain Matters' will shed light on the imp ace of chronic pain on people's lives and will engage and enlighten viewers," said Camilla Carpenter, senior vice president of business strategy and operations at the Discovery Channel.
In addition to limiting the ability to participate in fundamental tasks of daily living, chronic pain can impact a person's economic, physical and emotional well-being. There are many treatments for chronic pain but often it is unable to be cured.
Stories that will be shared during the documentary include a U.S. Navy veteran, Derek McGinnis, who sustained debilitating injuries while serving in Iraq and Mariann Farrell, a mother of two who lives in Pittsburgh who was involved in a car crash over 20 years ago that left her with sometimes debilitating chronic pain.
Also featured in the film are leading experts in pain management. These experts will provide perspective on the science behind chronic pain including how it's treated, the effects of untreated pain and the future of pain management.
"Pain Matters" features the "Individual Burdens of Chronic Pain" survey conducted on behalf of Teva Pharmaceuticals in collaboration wight he American Chronic Pain Association (ACPA) and the American Academy of Pain Medicine (AAPM). The survey included 1,255 adults living with chronic pain treated by prescription medication. It also included 505 adults who live and care for those dealing with chronic pain.
Here are some highlights from the study:
"Pain Matters" will air on the Discovery Channel Saturday, Nov. 16, Dec. 7 and Dec. 14 at 8 a.m. and will also be available online at www.PainMattersFilm.com.