Sex-Related Differences in Chronic Pain: A Narrative Review by a Multidisciplinary Task Force

Background and Objectives: Chronic pain (CP), defined as pain persisting for over 3 months, is a significant cause of global disability and affects more than 20% of individuals in Western countries, including Italy. Substantial evidence indicates a higher prevalence of CP among women, who also experience greater sensitivity, increased frequency, and a longer duration of pain. The impact of CP on quality of life, daily functioning, and employment is profound, particularly for women. However, chronic pain research has insufficiently addressed sex and gender differences, contributing to suboptimal and inequitable care. This neglect limits the development of personalized treatment strategies and, when combined with an aging population and women’s longer life expectancy, highlights an increasing societal and economic burden. Materials and Methods: The authors conducted a narrative review of studies examining biological, psychological, or social determinants of sex-related differences in CP perception or treatment. Each thematic area was reviewed by at least two authors, who critically appraised the literature. Their analyses were refined through iterative group discussions to develop concise, evidence-informed recommendations for personalized and equitable pain management. Results: Sex differences in CP arise from a range of factors, including biological mechanisms such as hormonal and genetic influences, psycho-social factors such as depression and anxiety, and socio-economic determinants, such as income and education levels. These factors also affect sex-specific outcomes of analgesic treatments currently available. Identifying these risk factors and tailoring treatment strategies to sex differences can significantly improve CP management. Such a personalized approach is essential for advancing precision medicine in CP management. Even in the absence of molecular or genomic biomarkers, adopting a biopsychosocial model that considers sex and gender differences, symptoms, physiological indicators, medical history, lifestyle, and psychological aspects may substantially enhance patient outcomes. Conclusions: This review provides a comprehensive analysis of sex differences in CP perception, stressing the importance of individualized, interdisciplinary approaches in pain management. Addressing both the biological and psycho-social contributors to pain in men and women is critical for guiding healthcare professionals in implementing precision pain medicine strategies, ultimately fostering more equitable and effective care.