Researchers from Umeå University have developed a new methodology to measure the global disease burden of facial pain, according to a press release from Region Norrbotten. The international research group, led by Umeå University scientists, has created descriptions that will make visible the societal costs of facial pain conditions, which affect approximately one in ten people.
Facial pain is one of the most common forms of chronic pain, often caused by overloading of jaw muscles or joints. The condition is typically long-lasting and affects daily activities such as eating and speaking. Many patients also experience additional problems including headaches and sleep disturbances.
for the first time, researchers can compare the burden of facial pain with conditions like diabetes
Anna Lövgren, associate professor at the Department of Odontology at Umeå University and one of the researchers leading the study, stated that for the first time, researchers can compare the burden of facial pain with conditions like diabetes. Data from Västerbotten shows that people with facial pain more frequently have long sick leaves, but until now, the total costs of the condition have been difficult to assess.
The new method will enable researchers to estimate the disease burden of facial pain and connect it to health data, allowing for analysis of how many people are affected and what consequences this has for society. The research aims to provide better understanding of the healthcare costs and societal impact of this common chronic pain condition.