Gender differences in chronic pain management outcomes among a sample of pharmacists licensed to practice in the State of Arizona

Abstract

Specific Aims: The aim for this study was to determine differences in pain intensity levels, pain interference with physical activities and leisure activities, overall health, and quality of life between male and female pharmacists with chronic pain. Methods: This descriptive study used an online questionnaire that was sent to pharmacists 18 years and older with chronic pain and had license to practice in the State of Arizona. The data was responses of a total of 12 questionnaires that were answered by qualified pharmacists. The data were collected anonymously and stored on the College of Pharmacy secure server. Mean and standard deviation were used to analyze continuous data, t-test was used to compare groups, and chi square test was used to analyze frequencies and percentage. Main Results: Questionnaires were completed by three male (mean age = 42; SD =14) and eight female pharmacists (mean age = 36; SD =22) who were licensed to practice pharmacy in the State of Arizona. There is a significant difference in level of pain between male and female pharmacists, male pharmacists reported higher levels of pain (male = 42, female = 35.9), pain interference with daily activities, and leisure activities, overall health, and quality of life (p<0.001). Conclusions: Male Pharmacists reported higher levels of overall pain, pain interference with physical activities and leisure activities, overall health, and quality of life compared to female pharmacists with chronic pain.