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Elsevier Science Inc.

Contrasting Patterns of Chronic Pain in Mainland China

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Researchers from Hong Kong Metropolitan University have challenged traditional assumptions about sex differences in chronic pain, discovering that males in mainland China reported a higher prevalence and intensity of chronic pain compared to females. The study, published in Pain Management Nursing, involved 1,607 adults and revealed significant interactions between income, education, and sex on pain intensity. The findings suggest that lower income, higher income, and lower education are associated with a higher likelihood and intensity of chronic pain, respectively.

Key Takeaways:

  • Males in mainland China reported a higher prevalence and intensity of chronic pain compared to females.
  • Lower income was associated with a higher likelihood of chronic pain, while higher income was a significant predictor of greater pain intensity.
  • Education level also played a crucial role, with lower education being associated with greater pain intensity.
  • Significant interaction effects between income, education, and sex on pain intensity were observed.
  • Males' pain intensity was more strongly influenced by the perception that exercise exacerbates pain, while females were more likely to view pain as a natural consequence of aging.
  • The study highlights the need for sex-sensitive interventions, such as online pain management programs tailored to address the distinct socio-demographic and perceptual factors influencing men and women.

Statistics:

  • 1,607 adults participated in the survey in mainland China.
  • 55% of participants were male, while 45% were female.
  • 65% of males reported having chronic pain, compared to 55% of females.
  • The Mann-Whitney U test revealed a significant difference in mean pain intensity between sex groups (p < 0.01).
  • Generalized Linear Models and stepwise regression analysis revealed that income, education, and sex were significant predictors of chronic pain intensity.

Sources:

  • "Sex, Income, and Education as Determinants of Chronic Pain in Mainland China" (Humanities and Social Sciences Citation Index).
  • Pain Management Nursing, Volume issue, 2025 (Elsevier Science Inc).
  • Hong Kong Metropolitan University, School of Nursing and Health Sciences (Hong Kong, People's Republic of China).
  • NewsRx LLC (China Weekly News, October 21, 2025).

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