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Study Reveals Pain Isn't Just About Age
11 Nov
Summary
- Pain levels correlate with income, obesity, and smoking habits.
- Women experience pain more frequently and at earlier ages than men.
- Pain perception decreases with age in higher income countries.
A groundbreaking study involving over 6 million individuals from 118 countries reveals that pain levels are influenced by more than just age. Researchers found significant correlations between pain intensity and factors such as income, geography, obesity, and smoking habits. Contrary to popular belief, the study indicates that pain does not necessarily increase with age.
Women reported higher pain levels than men across all 11 anatomical sites studied, with bodily pain beginning earlier for women. The intensity of pain also appeared to decrease with age, particularly in countries with a higher Human Development Index. Conversely, self-reported pain was more prevalent in lower-income nations.
The research highlights geographical disparities, noting that pain incidence declines with age in higher-income Western European countries. In contrast, regions like Central Asia, including India and Pakistan, show a continuous rise in pain with age. This variation is attributed to differing labor standards, occupations, and access to preventative care.
