PARIS – A new study reveals that chronic pain affects a staggering 42% of adults in France - more than 23 million people – highlighting a significant public health concern. The research, released Monday by the Analgesia foundation in Clermont-Ferrand, indicates that over four in ten French adults experience daily pain lasting at least three months.
The study, conducted on a representative sample of the adult population, represents the first comprehensive assessment of chronic pain prevalence in France in 25 years. ”It has been 25 years sence there have been precise assessments of the number of French people suffering from chronic pain,” stated Nicolas Authier, president of the Analgesia foundation. “This study…shows a real burden. More than 40% of adults in France say they have suffered from daily pain for at least 3 months.”
Chronic pain takes many forms. Musculoskeletal pain, including lower back pain and osteoarthritis, is the most common, affecting 36% of adults. Headaches and migraines impact 33%, while abdominal pain affects 15%. Neuropathic pain, such as sciatica and post-shingles pain, accounts for 12% of cases.
Authier attributes the rise in reported chronic pain to factors including an aging population, the increasing prevalence of painful diseases, and more sedentary lifestyles. He also noted a shift in societal attitudes. “There is also greater freedom of speech around chronic pain, which was still stigmatized 20 or 30 years ago.” The study also found that women are disproportionately affected, with 57% of those experiencing chronic pain identifying as female, possibly linked to conditions like endometriosis.
Despite the widespread impact, two-thirds of patients report dissatisfaction with the support they receive. Authier hopes the study will elevate chronic pain to a “great national cause” and spur improved public health initiatives.
