Rural-Urban Disparities in the Prevalence of Chronic Pain in Adults: Associations With Demographic and Socioeconomic Characteristics

This project examined rural-urban differences in chronic pain using the National Health Interview Survey from 2019-2023. Prevalence of chronic pain is nearly 50% higher for rural versus urban adults (29% versus 21%) and significant differences remained after controlling for a collection of chronic pain risk factors. Efforts are needed to improve access to pain management services for rural residents.