Association between smoking and central sensitization pain: a web-based cross-sectional study

Area of Science:

• Pain research
• Epidemiology
• Public health

Background:

• Central Sensitization Syndrome (CSS) is a complex condition characterized by amplified pain signaling.
• Understanding risk factors for CSS is crucial for effective management and prevention strategies.
• Smoking is a prevalent behavior with known health implications, but its specific role in CSS requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if smoking is an independent risk factor for developing Central Sensitization Syndrome (CSS).
• To quantify the association between smoking status and Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI) scores.
• To assess the relative risk of elevated CSI scores among current smokers compared to non-smokers.

Main Methods:

• An internet-based survey was conducted in Japan with 2000 participants aged 20-69 experiencing pain.
• Multiple regression analysis examined the relationship between smoking status (including Brinkman index) and CSI values.
• Modified Poisson regression calculated the relative risk of CSI scores exceeding a threshold of 40 among smokers, adjusting for covariates.

Main Results:

• Analysis included 1,822 participants; current smoking was significantly associated with increased CSI scores (β=0.07).
• The Brinkman index also showed a significant association with higher CSI values (β=0.06).
• Current smokers had a 1.29 times higher risk of exceeding the CSI cut-off score (RR=1.29, 95% CI: 1.04-1.60).

Conclusions:

• Smoking is confirmed as an independent risk factor for Central Sensitization Syndrome (CSS).
• The findings suggest that smoking cessation should be considered a key component in managing central pain disorders.
• This research underscores the importance of addressing smoking habits in clinical practice for patients with CSS.