Chronic pain affects millions in America, U.S. Pain Foundation aims to unite voices

Chronic pain affects more than 60 million Americans, according to the U.S. Pain Foundation, which has launched a national campaign to unite the experiences of those living with pain during Pain Awareness Month.

The foundation's #OneVoiceForPain campaign aims to address the shared challenges and needs of people dealing with chronic pain, regardless of their age or diagnosis. This year’s theme, "All Ages. Countless Diagnoses. Millions of Stories. One Movement," highlights the diversity of chronic pain while emphasizing the common ground that connects those who experience it.

Recent data from a U.S. Pain Foundation survey of over 2,000 individuals with chronic pain revealed that respondents averaged 10 distinct diagnoses and 73% felt socially isolated or misunderstood. Nicole Hemmenway, CEO of the U.S. Pain Foundation, stated, "Chronic pain may look different from person to person, but the need to be heard, understood, and supported is universal. #OneVoiceForPain is about bringing those experiences together to build greater understanding, strengthen community, and create meaningful change."

During September, the campaign will explore four key themes: - All Ages: How pain affects people at every stage of life. - Countless Diagnoses: What people with pain have in common, regardless of their condition. - Millions of Stories: What lived experience and survey findings reveal about needs, gaps, and priorities. - One Movement: Why progress requires collaboration across the pain community and beyond.

The U.S. Pain Foundation will use these themes to bring greater visibility to the experiences of those with chronic pain, the challenges that remain, and the changes the community wants to see. The campaign encourages everyone to join #OneVoiceForPain by raising awareness, building connection, advocating for change, supporting those with pain, and ensuring that lived experience is centered in decision-making processes related to pain.

The U.S. Pain Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, empowers, educates, connects, and advocates for individuals living with pain, as well as their care partners and providers.