Pain During Midlife: A Cross-National Analysis
Author Information
Author(s): Infurna Frank, Syed Orchee, Cruz-Carrillo Yesenia, Dey Nutifafa, Wettstein Markus, Grimm Kevin, Lachman Margie, Gerstorf Denis
Primary Institution: Arizona State University
Hypothesis
Does pain show national disparities among midlife cohorts in the U.S. compared to peer nations?
Conclusion
Midlife pain is higher among later-born cohorts in the U.S., while some peer nations show historical declines in pain.
Supporting Evidence
- Midlife pain is higher among later-born cohorts in the U.S.
- Historical increases in pain emerged at earlier stages of midlife for later-born cohorts.
- Continental and Nordic Europe also showed historical increases in pain.
- England, Mediterranean Europe, South Korea, and Mexico observed historical declines in pain.
Takeaway
This study looks at how pain in middle-aged people in the U.S. compares to people in other countries, finding that Americans are feeling more pain than some of their peers.
Methodology
The study used harmonized data from nationally representative longitudinal panel surveys.
Participant Demographics
Participants included middle-aged individuals from the U.S., 13 European nations, South Korea, and Mexico.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website