Fibromyalgia, a source of intense pain for many Maltese people, will finally be recognised for sickness benefits, the government has announced for next year’s budget.

Fibromyalgia is a disorder characterised by widespread pain, accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues. While sufferers also experience high sensitivity to pain and may also suffer from migraines and IBS

To qualify for the benefit, a person would need to undergo stringent tests to prevent abuse. The condition, unfortunately, is something of a mystery as it can’t be detected with scans or blood tests, yet it causes lifelong pain for millions of people.

While the condition causes around 40% of sufferers to reduce their work hours, or stop work altogether, it was not recognised by Malta.

Malta has its own battle with chronic pains, with 25% of people over 40 and 10% of young people suffering from such conditions.

In other news, parents with children who have a rare disease will also be able to apply for the same pension plans granted to parents with children who have a disability.

Often, parents with children who have a rare disease have to stop working to care for them. Now, they will able to apply for an improved pension, with the government providing 8 years worth of national insurance contributions.

What do you think about this proposal? Comment below

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