Report finds people with chronic pain continue to suffer from stigma

Around four million Australians, or one in five, are living with chronic pain. Many report feeling overlooked and ignored within the healthcare system, prompting experts to call for greater national investment, including a more holistic approach to care.

A person holds their stomach as they lie on the couch in Melbourne, Thursday, January 5, 2023. An Australian researcher has helped detect a molecular receptor in the colon which could lead to a breakthrough in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome. (AAP Image/Diego Fedele) NO ARCHIVING Credit: AAPIMAGE

KEY POINTS

• The research found nearly three-quarters of chronic pain sufferers experience mental health issues as a result of their pain.
• The report found this year - 2025 - 54 per cent of survey respondents reported waiting more than two years for a diagnosis, and 44 per cent waited over three years.
• Chronic Pain Australia's report calls on the federal government to make chronic pain a national priority through changes like providing more localised funding to primary care and the coding system.

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Report finds people with chronic pain continue to suffer from stigma

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