Germany disease burden: Pain and sepsis identified as major health risks

New data from the Robert Koch Institute regarding the disease burden in Germany highlights that pain is a leading factor in lost years of life. The study indicates that the causes of lost life years vary significantly based on age and gender.

Additionally, sepsis has been identified as a critical and frequently underestimated medical emergency in Germany. Approximately 140,000 Germans die from sepsis annually. The condition occurs when the immune system overreacts to an infection, causing damage to vital organs. Because early symptoms can appear harmless, such as a minor injury or inflammation, patients and relatives often fail to recognize the warning signs in time. Efforts to increase public awareness are planned, including activities surrounding World Sepsis Day.