ontario's billion dollar problem with sepsis

sepsis occurs when a person’s body has an intense, inflammatory response to an infection, usually caused by bacteria or other germs. if left untreated, it can lead to organ dysfunction or even death. researchers from the ottawa hospital, the university of ottawa, and ices recently published a study in critical care medicine   looking at the “true healthcare costs of sepsis.”

in a news release , dr. alison fox-robichaud, scientific director at sepsis canada , said the study highlights the need for “improved early identification of patients of risk of sepsis and strategies to monitor and treat those who survive sepsis to reduce the significant health and economic burden.”

sepsis has made headlines over the past year after canadian researchers discovered it’s the second leading cause of death among covid-19 patients . in january, actress tanya roberts died at the age of 65 following a urinary tract infection. reports suggested the infection ultimately spread to her organs.

sepsis remains a serious problem globally, with the world health organzation estimating 11 million sepsis-related deaths in 2018 alone, making up nearly 20 per cent of all deaths around the world. symptoms of sepsis include chills, rapid heartbeat, rash and confusion. estimates suggest canada sees 75,000 cases each year and 18,000 deaths. last year, the federal government announced $5.7 million in funding for a national research network to study the life-threatening condition.