Changes in Prevalence, Outcomes, and Help‐seeking Behavior of Chronic Pain in an Aging Population Over the Last Decade

Abstract

The prevalence of neuropathic pain in Hong Kong is high and is described here for the first time. The number of chronic pain sufferers has tripled in the past decade. Significant changes in the patterns and help- seeking behavior of chronic pain sufferers are also seen.

Depression and chronic pain in the elderly: links and management challenges

“…Data from general population studies have shown the prevalence of chronic pain in the elderly can be as high as 55% after the age of 60 years67 and as high as 62% after the age of 75 years 56. The prevalence of chronic pain remains the same in the age group 60–74 and the age group >75, however the data for this statement are limited 67…”

A comparison of chronic pain with and without neuropathic characteristics in a Hong Kong Chinese population: An analysis of pain related outcomes and patient help seeking behaviour

“…Individuals with chronic neuropathic pain were associated with more severe pain, longer duration of pain, pain in more body locations, lower quality of life, worse sleep quality, increased symptoms of anxiety and depression, and greater use of health care resources [ 3 , 4 , 7 – 9 ]. In a cross sectional telephone interview, we reported that the prevalence of pain with neuropathic characteristics (acute and chronic) was 9.03% in a Chinese population in Hong Kong [ 10 ]. In addition, 14.7% of Chinese patients suffering from chronic pain in Hong Kong had neuropathic characteristics [ 10 ].…”

Spinal cord stimulation for chronic non-cancer pain: a review of current evidence and practice

“…1 A recent study showed that 28.7% of people in Hong Kong have chronic pain. 2 This can be a major reason for reduced psychosocial function, impaired quality of life, and increased health care costs. 2 Spinal cord stimulation mainly targets neuropathic pain and has limited efficacy for nociceptive pain.…”

“…2 This can be a major reason for reduced psychosocial function, impaired quality of life, and increased health care costs. 2 Spinal cord stimulation mainly targets neuropathic pain and has limited efficacy for nociceptive pain. 1 Neuropathic pain is common in Hong Kong, affecting 9.03% of the total population and 14.7% of chronic pain sufferers.…”

“…1 Neuropathic pain is common in Hong Kong, affecting 9.03% of the total population and 14.7% of chronic pain sufferers. 2 For some patients, severe pain persists despite multidisciplinary management. Strong opioids are often prescribed, despite their side-effects and lack of good longterm efficacy.…”