Related Experiment Videos
Race, ethnicity and pain
Christopher L Edwards1, Roger B Fillingim, Francis Keefe
1Pain and Palliative Care Center, Duke University Medical Center, 932 Morreene Road, Rm 166, 27713, Durham, NC, USA Department of Psychiatry, Duke University Medical Center, DUMC-3847, Durham, NC, USA Public Health Services and Research, University of Florida College of Dentistry and North Florida South Georgia VA Health System, USA.
Pain
|November 3, 2001
Summary
This paper examines how race and ethnicity impact pain perception and treatment. It reviews existing research and offers guidance for future studies on racial and ethnic disparities in pain.
Area of Science:
- Medical Research
- Pain Management
- Sociology of Health
Background:
- Race and ethnicity are complex factors influencing health outcomes.
- Understanding these influences is crucial for equitable pain management.
- Previous research has shown varied effects of race and ethnicity on pain perception.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the utility of race and ethnicity as concepts in pain research.
- To propose operational definitions for race and ethnicity in scientific studies.
- To synthesize current literature on the impact of race and ethnicity on pain.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies.
- Analysis of research methodologies concerning race and ethnicity in pain.
- Synthesis of findings from laboratory and clinical pain research.
Main Results:
- The concepts of race and ethnicity have demonstrated utility in pain research.
- Operational definitions are suggested to improve study consistency.
- Literature indicates significant effects of race and ethnicity on both laboratory and clinical pain experiences.
Conclusions:
- Race and ethnicity are important variables in understanding pain.
- Standardized definitions are needed for future research.
- Further investigation is recommended to address disparities in pain management.