THE LANCET: December 31, 2025:International trends and social disparities in pain of adults aged 50 years and older in 22 countries across Europe, Asia, and the Americas: a longitudinal population-based study

This longitudinal study examines how chronic physical suffering evolved over two decades among aging populations across twenty-two different nations. By analyzing data from hundreds of thousands of individuals, researchers discovered that pain prevalence is rising globally, though the severity of this trend varies significantly depending on a country's specific geography and policies. The findings highlight a troubling correlation between social disadvantage and physical health, noting that women and those with limited education frequently endure the highest levels of discomfort. Ultimately, the authors argue that persistent pain must be addressed as a critical public health crisis rather than just an individual medical concern, urging leaders to learn from nations that have successfully minimized these health gaps.