Treatment Options Increase For Millions with Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia Awareness Day is opportunity to highlight advances for chronic condition; third FDA-approved drug to come onto market.

(Vocus) April 27, 2009 -- Each new treatment that becomes available is a step forward for the estimated 10 million people suffering with fibromyalgia, according to the National Fibromyalgia Association (http://www.fmaware.org/) (NFA), which is observing Fibromyalgia Awareness Day on May 12, 2009. Organizations, including Allsup (http://www.allsupcares.com/?=PC09-5), a national Social Security Disability Insurance representation company, are helping to raise awareness about the impact of this chronic pain condition on individuals and their families.

The NFA reports an estimated 10 million people in the United States suffer from fibromyalgia, which is a syndrome characterized by widespread pain and multiple tender points, fatigue, sleeping problems and other symptoms. The diagnosis is usually made between the ages of 20 and 50, but incidence rises with age.

Each of the past three years, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a new drug to treat fibromyalgia. In January, the FDA approved Savella™, which was developed by Forest Laboratories Inc. and Cypress Bioscience Inc. and is scheduled for release to pharmacies in early summer.

To help advance treatment, education and awareness, the national association is celebrating May 12 with the theme "Fibromyalgia Affects Everyone." A key component of this year's observance is the second annual Walk of F.A.M.E., which stands for Fibromyalgia Awareness Means Everything. Teams are holding walks in local communities nationwide on or around May 12. Supporters also can hold candlelight observances, participate in the "Pledge to Care (http://www.fmaware.org/site/PageServer?pagename=community_pledgeToCare)" and other activities.

To support individuals and their families, the NFA offers a variety of online resources, including information about current clinical trials, personal stories from those who suffer with fibromyalgia and a healthcare provider directory. For more information, go to www.fmaware.org.

Allsup salutes the National Fibromyalgia Association and other organizations across the country that help explain the far-reaching affects of this chronic pain disorder on the lives of millions of people and their families.

Free posters highlighting Fibromyalgia Awareness Day are available through Allsup to hospitals, clinics and other community groups by calling Karen Hercules-Doerr at (800) 854-1418, ext. 5770.

Contact:     

National Fibromyalgia Association        

Sandy Bennett                    

(714) 921-0150                    

sbennett(at)fmaware.org                

www.fmaware.org

Allsup

Karen Hercules-Doerr

(800) 854-1418, ext. 5770

k.hercules-doerr(at)allsupinc.com

www.allsupcares.com

###