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Chronic pain in Australia: a prevalence study.
F M Blyth1, L M March, A J Brnabic
1Pain Management and Research Centre, University of Sydney, Royal North Shore Hospital, St. Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia. fionab@dph1.health.usyd.edu.au
Pain
|February 13, 2001
Summary
Chronic pain affects over 17% of Australian adults, with higher prevalence in females and older age groups. This widespread condition is linked to social disadvantage and impacts daily life significantly.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
- Pain Management
Background:
- Chronic pain is a significant public health issue with substantial impact on individuals and society.
- Understanding the prevalence and associated factors of chronic pain is crucial for effective health policy and intervention.
- Previous studies have highlighted variations in chronic pain prevalence across different demographics and socioeconomic statuses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of chronic pain in a randomly selected adult Australian population.
- To identify demographic, socioeconomic, and health-related factors associated with chronic pain.
- To assess the extent to which chronic pain interferes with daily activities and its associated factors.
Main Methods:
- A large-scale, random sample of the adult Australian population was surveyed using Computer-Assisted Telephone Interview (CATI).
- A two-stage stratified sample design ensured representative data collection.
- Chronic pain was defined as daily pain for three months within the preceding six months.
Main Results:
- The prevalence of chronic pain was 17.1% for males and 20.0% for females, peaking in older age groups for both genders.
- Chronic pain was significantly associated with older age, female gender, lower education, lack of private health insurance, unemployment benefits, poor self-rated health, and psychological distress.
- Interference with daily activities due to pain was reported by 11% of males and 13.5% of females, with higher proportional impact on younger individuals with chronic pain.
Conclusions:
- Chronic pain affects a substantial proportion of the Australian adult population, including working-age individuals.
- Strong associations exist between chronic pain, particularly interfering pain, and markers of social disadvantage, including unemployment and receipt of disability benefits.
- Findings underscore the need for targeted interventions and support systems for individuals experiencing chronic pain, addressing both clinical and socioeconomic dimensions.