Canada’s largest scientific event focused on pain showcases QPRN members who are advancing research and driving public engagement around chronic pain.
From May 1 to 4, 2025, the Canadian Pain Society (CPS) is hosting its 45th Annual Scientific Meeting in Toronto, bringing together more than 500 in-person participants and reaching an international audience through live streaming. This major gathering aims to advance knowledge on pain, foster international partnerships, and encourage dialogue among researchers, clinicians, and patient partners.
Among the members of the Quebec Pain Research Network (QPRN) attending this year, Yves De Koninck and Gabrielle Pagé stand out for their contributions to chronic pain research. Yves De Koninck, neuroscientist, Professor of Psychiatry and Neuroscience at Université Laval, and Director of the CERVO Brain Research Centre, emphasizes the need to strengthen healthcare tools and structures to better address chronic pain. He highlights that this condition, long underestimated, is now recognized as a disease in its own right, requiring coordinated efforts in awareness and intervention. Gabrielle Pagé, Associate Professor at Université de Montréal, focuses her research on the connections between pain, stress, and mental health. She was awarded the CPS 2025 Early Career Award, recognizing the excellence of her work.
The event also opens its doors to the general public on May 2 with a Day of Mobilization. This day aims to support people living with chronic pain and to raise public awareness about this major health issue. The program includes a parade, a BBQ, and participatory activities to amplify the voices of those affected.
