Pain among Latinos with Arthritis: Results from a Community-Based Survey

The objectives of this study were to assess the factors associated with pain among Latinos with arthritis, to identify common coping strategies and potentially effective interventions, and to evaluate whether pain levels affect level of interest in potentially useful programs. Using a convenience sampling approach and a combination of face-to-face and telephone surveys, 588 Latino adults in Oregon with arthritis were interviewed. The intensity of pain during a typical day was assessed using a scale ranging from 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst pain). A score of 7 or higher was defined as severe pain. Over 60% of Latinos reported severe pain. Results indicated that among Latinos with arthritis, women, those with lower levels of education, and those reporting poor or fair self-rated health and functional limitations had higher levels of pain, after controlling for confounders. Those with severe pain were more likely than those with lower levels of pain to use over-the-counter medicine and home remedies, and showed a greater reliance on religious coping to manage their arthritis. In addition, Latinos in greater pain were more likely to be interested in arthritis management programs. In conclusion, the strong interest of Latinos in various arthritis and joint pain management programs could prove to be an important avenue for supporting a population with high levels of arthritic pain and lack of health insurance.