Does case definition affect prevalence and risk factor relationships?
Background Prevalence of chronic widespread pain (CWP) is high: 10-13%. Most recent studies have used the same case definition, although this is arbitrary and without clinical justification. Aims To identify risk factors for CWP, and to determine the influence of three case definitions on prevalence of CWP. Methods A literature review was conducted utilizing six electronic databases. Quality of evidence was appraised with SIGN-50 checklists. Influence of three case definitions (two established, one new) on prevalence was ascertained by analysis of data, from a previously conducted population-based study. Results 1. Six risk factor themes were identified from the literature review: Socio-demographic, psychological, general health, physical/mechanical trauma, adverse events & biological factors. 2. Differences in prevalence of CWP by case definition were demonstrated (Figure 1): Figure 1: Prevalence differences CWP Case Definition Prevalence CWP Established [1] 19% Established [2] 13% Ne
