Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs) 78% Increase in Hospital Admissions

Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs) as a reason for admission to hospital over the past 10 years to 2009 has increased by 78%. More than any other cause, according the Official
National Statistic Data Base. "Something should be done" say the researchers at Imperial College, "Our data suggest the number of ADR admissions has increased at a greater rate than the increase in total hospital admissions; in-hospital mortality due to ADR admissions also increased during the period. Our findings should prompt policymakers to implement further measures to reduce ADR incidence and their associated in-hospital mortality, and methods to improve the recording of ADRs."

I have been chairing the Advisory Group to the Evaluation of Patient Yellow Card Reporting of ADRs in England. The findings show that Patient Reports identify more 'Signals' of ADRs than relying on Health Professional reports alone. Many Health Professionals do not see the need to report. The situation is a Public Health Scandal in my opinion.

Any suggestions for action? Maybe some of you reading this could offer to help me write some letters? Maybe make an appointment to see your own MP?

Complain about the lack of independent Pharmacology and Therapeutics education for medical students and that the Pharmaceutical Industry is often behind the only source of information about drugs that students and doctors have access to.

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