Prevalence of Chronic Pain

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Every year, about 100 million adult Americans experience chronic pain, a condition that costs the nation between $560 billion and $635 billion annually, as stated in a report from the IOM (2011). Much of this pain is preventable or could be better managed. Pain is the primary reason for up to 80% of all primary care visits. The severe under treatment of pain in years past has led to immeasurable amounts of pain and suffering in patients with chronic nonmalignant pain syndrome as well as those suffering chronic conditions. The IOM, in its 2011 report, called for a “population health-level strategy for pain prevention, treatment, management, education, reimbursement and research.”

Institute of Medicine (2011). Relieving pain in america: A blueprint for transforming prevention, care, education, and research.