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The paediatric global musculoskeletal task force - 'towards better MSK health for all'
Helen E Foster1, Christiaan Scott2, Carl J Tiderius3
1Newcastle University, UK and Newcastle University Medicine Malaysia, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. h.e.foster@newcastle.edu.my.
Insights
Global non-communicable diseases (NCDs) disproportionately affect children and young people (CYP) with musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions. Addressing MSK health inequity is crucial for improving outcomes in pediatric populations worldwide.
Area of Science:
- Global Health
- Pediatric Medicine
- Musculoskeletal Health
Background:
- Rising global burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) necessitates broader strategic planning.
- Musculoskeletal (MSK) morbidity in children and young people (CYP) is a significant, yet often overlooked, aspect of NCDs.
- Advances in pediatric MSK care improve outcomes, but access remains highly inequitable globally.
Discussion:
- Vast disparities in healthcare access and specialist care availability hinder effective management of MSK conditions in CYP worldwide.
- Limited access to treatments exacerbates the health challenges faced by young individuals in resource-limited settings.
- The Paediatric Global Musculoskeletal Task Force highlights the unmet needs and advocates for integrated approaches to MSK health.
Key Insights:
- Prioritizing MSK health in children and young people is essential for addressing the global NCDs burden.
- Improving access to high-quality paediatric MSK care is critical to reducing health inequities.
- Lifestyle promotion and injury prevention are key strategies for enhancing MSK health in youth.
Outlook:
- The Paediatric Global Musculoskeletal Task Force aims to raise awareness and drive change through collaborative efforts.
- Focusing on 'working together better' can help overcome healthcare challenges and improve outcomes for CYP with MSK conditions.
- Strategic planning must incorporate the unique needs of children and young people to achieve comprehensive NCDs management.
Abstract:
There is increasing concern about the emerging global non-communicable diseases (NCDs) burden. The focus has mainly been on NCDs in adults but it is important that MSK morbidity in both children and adults is included in strategic planning. There have been considerable advances in the understanding and treatment options for children and young people (CYP) and clinical outcomes are improving for those who can access such high quality care. However vast inequity exists and there are many CYP who live in areas of the world with high burden of health care challenges, compounded by paucity of specialist care and limited access to treatments. The Paediatric Global Musculoskeletal Task Force aims to raise awareness about unmet needs for CYP with MSK conditions, promotion of MSK health through lifestyle and the avoidance of injury. We aim to leverage change through 'working together better'.
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