Polio - The Late Effects Reality

INTRODUCTION: POST POLIO SUPPORT GROUP

The Post Polio Support Group (Post Polio Support Group) originated in 1993 when it was realised that Polio Survivors were facing a second disabling condition of which very little was known in Ireland. This condition – now known as the "Late Effects of Polio" (LEP) or "Post Polio Syndrome" - is internationally medically recognised (Ahlstrom et al, 1993, Falconer, 1999). The Post Polio Support Group has been extremely active over the last few years in raising awareness about the increasing numberof Polio Survivors who are suffering LEP. The numbers of people contracting Polio in Ireland peaked in the 1950s; this has since reduced to single figures through the introduction of an effective vaccination programme. The age range of Post Polio Support Group members is from mid-30s to old age, with the average now in the 50 to 60 years age bracket. There are progressively more survivors needing assistance who are suffering symptoms. This is likely to continue as the existing Polio Survivor population develops problems.

The concern of the Post Polio Support Group is now to ensure that appropriate and timely support is available to meet the future needs of survivors. Planning for the availability of such support will be enhanced by better quality accurate information about the needs of individuals and their circumstances. It will also be enhanced by investigation of the methods of cost-effective delivery of support e.g. preventative programmes dealing with early symptoms rather than more costly acute, clinical services needed where rapidly advancing symptoms are unchecked.

It was against this background that the Post Polio Support Group commissioned this survey into how LEP affects the Polio Survivor in all aspects of their lives.