Risk Factors for Chronic Pain in Women: The Role of Violence Exposure in a Case-Control Study.

BACKGROUND

Chronic pain is an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience that greatly affects functioning and well-being. Studies link chronic pain and violence against women, with an odds ratio of 2.08 and a 26% prevalence rate. The bio-psycho-social consequences reduce quality of life and cause disability. Despite extensive research, the etiology remains unclear. This study investigates the bio-psycho-social risk factors of chronic pain in women, both victims and non-victims of violence.

METHODS

A case-control study (December 2023-June 2024) used odds ratios and Fisher's exact test to explore risk factors associated with chronic pain. Univariate logistic regressions identified significant predictors.

RESULTS

The study included 170 women (68 victims), half with chronic pain. Nine risk factors were specific to victims (three biological, six psycho-social), four to non-victims (two biological, two psycho-social), and twenty-three to all women (five biological, eighteen psycho-social). A four-factor model best explained risk in victims and all women, while a two-factor model fit non-victims.

CONCLUSIONS

The bio-psycho-social model of chronic pain is supported, identifying specific risk factors. These findings can aid anti-violence and healthcare professionals in screening and early intervention.