Rural Residents Experience Higher Rates of Chronic Pain, Study Finds

A recent study conducted by the University of Texas at Arlington highlights that individuals living in rural areas are significantly more prone to experiencing chronic pain compared to their urban counterparts. The research indicates that rural residents not only have a higher likelihood of developing chronic pain but are also more susceptible to transitioning from occasional or no pain to persistent pain over time. These findings offer crucial insights into the reasons behind the elevated prescription rates of opioids in rural communities and underscore the need for targeted interventions.

According to Feinuo Sun, an assistant professor of kinesiology and the study's lead author, the disparities in pain management and health outcomes between rural and urban populations extend beyond just mortality rates. "While the rural-urban gap in mortality and life expectancy has been well-documented, chronic pain adds another layer of challenge for rural residents," she explains. Chronic pain has been linked to increased risks of disability and premature death, along with substantial health care expenses, estimated at $261 billion to $300 billion annually in the United States.

Dr. Sun emphasizes the importance of early intervention, particularly for middle-aged adults in rural areas, who are especially vulnerable to developing long-term pain issues. "Without timely treatment, chronic pain can lead to serious consequences, including early mortality," she notes. Her research employs spatial analysis using national data to map how regional factors—such as employment types, socioeconomic status, and healthcare access—affect health outcomes. Her previous work revealed that rural residents expect to live more years with chronic pain than those living in suburban or urban areas.

The study suggests that factors beyond limited healthcare in rural communities contribute to the pain disparity. Rural residents often engage in physically demanding jobs and face higher poverty rates, both of which contribute to chronic pain. Additionally, fewer treatment options in these regions may lead to higher reliance on opioids, raising concerns about the root causes of opioid demand. Dr. Sun’s ongoing research aims to better understand these underlying factors and to develop strategies to reduce the pain and opioid use gap.

Overall, the findings point to the need for targeted health policies and programs that address the unique risks faced by rural populations, promoting early pain management and safer treatment modalities.

Source: Medical Xpress