A new study revealed a significant connection between chronic pain and education in Americans, which seem to be unrelated factors at first.
It discovered that middle-aged Americans without a college degree are experiencing more chronic pain than those who are college graduates. This group also reported an increase in pain compared to the generations before them.
Here are some more findings from the study that are worth noting:
- Many people with less education do not have access to adequate healthcare services.
- There is a connection between lower education and socioeconomic stressors, which then leads to chronic pain.
- Americans with less education are experiencing an intergenerational increase in pain.
- The differences in chronic pain between the more and less-educated has also widened across birth cohorts.
Implications of Chronic Pain on Households
Chronic pain affects not only the individual alone but also the household he or she belongs to. Furthermore, it often has a ripple effect on the entire family.
People afflicted with chronic pain are usually their family’s breadwinner; more often than not, these families are also living paycheck to paycheck and making ends meet. In such a situation, chronic pain affects not only these individuals’ health but also the well-being of their entire family.
It’s also crucial to note, however, that this is just the beginning of a vicious cycle. When a member of the family becomes unable to work and provide for the family, they become dependent on welfare programs to survive.
This situation may prompt other members of the family to take the breadwinner’s place, only to end up in the same condition. This can drag the entire family down in the long run.
Implications of Chronic Pain on the Society and the Healthcare Industry
The study also notes that the older adults of the future may experience more pain than the older adults at present.
This poses a potential challenge for the healthcare system in the U.S., which is already struggling to manage and treat pain in Americans adequately at present. Aside from this, the system is better geared to conduct procedures rather than manage long-term health issues.
If left unaddressed, an intergenerational increase in chronic pain can place a heavier burden on healthcare providers.
Preventing Pain in the Middle Age
This issue is largely and primarily linked to the health disparities in the United States. People with less education and lower socioeconomic status often have inadequate health insurance. They also have poor to no access to healthcare and often prioritize survival over wellness.
Despite this, there are many daily practices that people from all walks of life can do to prevent the development of chronic pain.
Some of these are regularly engaging in physical activity, following a nutritious diet, having enough shuteye, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing stress. In case of pain or other health problems, seeking prompt treatment can help prevent further and more costly complications.
Conclusion
The 2020 study showing the connection between chronic pain and education presented findings that must be acted on by all members of society. Managing pain promptly will enable the people to be in the best shape to continue providing for their families. This also allows them to enjoy the fruits of their labor. From a bigger perspective, this ensures a healthier older population of the future and avoids added strain on the healthcare system.
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