Experts warn of rising self-medication

On World Pain Day, experts emphasised the growing issue of self-medication in Pakistan, calling for public awareness campaigns to educate people about safe pain management and the risks of self-medication.

Leading pain management specialist Dr Ali Sarfraz explained that self-medication has become a serious health concern in Pakistan, adding that people are unaware of the potential risks and consequences of taking medication without proper consultation.

According to a recent study, over 60% of Pakistanis resort to self-medication for pain management, leading to increased risk of misuse, overdose, and long-term health complications, he added.

He further highlighted that World AS Day, a global awareness campaign dedicated to supporting patients living with Axial Spondyloarthritis (axSpA), a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the spine and sacroiliac joints, adding, through timely physiotherapist and recommended injections these pains can control.

Dr Shumaila Abbasi from Agha Khan Hospital highlighted the challenges faced by those living with chronic pain and the importance of better support and management. She said this year, we focus on a unified approach to improve pain management, raise awareness and empower those affected. She warned that due to the self-medication trend rising in the country, stomach, liver and lungs-related diseases are caused among public, adding, that Chikungunya cases rising in various cities of the county which is also the main cause of joint pains.