Epidemiology of Pediatric Chronic Pain: An Overview of Systematic Reviews.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Chronic non-cancer pain in children and adolescents represents a significant public health issue, affecting physical, psychological, and social well-being. Defined as pain persisting for over three months, this condition is influenced by developmental, socioeconomic, and cultural factors. However, its prevalence remains uncertain and debated. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across electronic databases, including Medline, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane Library. Eligible systematic reviews were critically appraised using the AMSTAR-2 tool to assess methodological quality. This overview synthesises evidence from existing systematic reviews to provide an updated understanding of the epidemiology and burden of paediatric non-cancer chronic pain.

Recent findings: Findings revealed substantial variability in the reported prevalence of specific pain types: headaches (4-83%), abdominal pain (4-53%), musculoskeletal pain (4-40%), and back/low-back pain (14-24%). Prevalence was generally lower in low- and middle-income countries, likely due to barriers in healthcare access. Methodological heterogeneity was observed across studies, and AMSTAR-2 assessment identified critical limitations in some systematic reviews, impacting the reliability of findings. This overview highlights the urgent need for standardised research methodologies to accurately monitor the prevalence of paediatric non-cancer chronic pain. Standardisation is essential for informing policies aimed at mitigating the long-term impact of chronic pain in children and adolescents. Addressing these issues, particularly in resource-limited settings, is crucial for improving health outcomes and reducing societal and economic burdens.