Health News
2007-01-31
Chronic pain on
the rise in U.S. workplace
Chronic,
persistent pain affects 26% of full-time U.S. workers, up
from 19% a decade ago, according to a national survey
Chronic,
persistent pain affects 26% of full-time U.S. workers, up
from 19% a decade ago, according to a national survey
released Tuesday. Today, 89% of those with chronic
pain report to work, even when that will have a
negative impact on their work—a growing trend known
as presenteeism. The same percentage reported that
they felt pain at work often or sometimes. But 95%
said their pain had to be moderately or very severe to
warrant calling in sick.
"Chronic pain
appears to be increasing in prevalence among U.S.
workers as Americans age and lead more sedentary
lifestyles," said Rollin Gallagher, MD, chief editor
of the Web site for the National Pain Foundation (www.NationalPainFoundation.org ) in a
release. The NPF partnered with Harris Interactive to
complete the 2006 “Pain in the
Workplace” survey. "This survey indicates that
employees with chronic pain must become their own
advocates, understand the impact of their chronic
pain, and work with their health care provider to identify
appropriate treatment options," Gallagher said.
On a positive
note, 66% of employers surveyed now offer workplace
wellness programs to employees, compared with 40% in 1996.
However, only 22% of wellness programs include a
component about preventing or living with chronic pain
conditions.
"We have seen
some improvement in the recognition of pain-related
illness in the workplace, and that should be commended,"
said Gallagher. "But more U.S. businesses should
invest in these wellness programs. Once employees are
given the tools to better understand and manage their
pain successfully, they can begin to improve many areas of
their lives affected by their chronic pain." (The
Advocate)
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