Half of midlife women live with chronic pain, global health report finds
An international health report estimates about half of middle-aged women experience chronic pain. Often it goes undiagnosed and untreated.
The International Menopause Society released a report. The report found women are up to 70 percent more likely to experience chronic pain than men.
About half of middle-aged women report the condition. The society describes it as often not recognized, not diagnosed and not treated enough.
Chronic pain comes from multiple factors. These include changing hormones, menopause changes, poor sleep and lifestyle factors.
Australian experts say early treatment improves outcomes. Doctors recommend exercise, a healthy diet and enough sleep.
Some women benefit from hormone therapy or physiotherapy.
- up to 70 percent more than men
- Higher pain likelihood
- about half of middle-aged women
- Women affected
- International Menopause Society
- Organization
Why it mattersMany women suffer unnecessarily because chronic pain goes undiagnosed. Knowing how common it is can prompt women to seek help earlier.
AustraliaAustralian health experts are highlighting the gap in diagnosis and treatment, pushing for better support and earlier intervention for midlife women experiencing pain.
