The meta-analysis of 376 studies involving 347,468 individuals from 50 countries revealed that a significant percentage of adults with chronic pain experience clinically significant symptoms of depression (39.3%) and anxiety (40.2%). The prevalence of depression and anxiety was significantly lower in control samples. Certain chronic pain conditions, such as fibromyalgia, were associated with a higher prevalence of psychological symptoms. The study emphasized the need for routine screening, equitable access to specialty care, and innovative treatment development for individuals with chronic pain and co-occurring depression and anxiety.

Source: JAMA Network Open