A Cultural and Neurobiological Exploration of Understanding Chronic Pain Perception in Black Women

Boniface M.

Order the writing of a tailor-made Medical studies Thesis

Free quote online

Dissertation Format .docx

A Cultural and Neurobiological Exploration of Understanding Chronic Pain Perception in Black Women

Download

Read an extract

Themes

Culture, neurobiology, chronic pain, pain perseption, black women, health inequalities, pain management

Reader
Abstract
Contents
Extract

Abstract

This essay explores the neurobiological mechanisms and cultural influences shaping chronic pain perception in Black women, with a focus on cancer survivors. It reviews theories of pain perception, highlighting disparities in prevalence and severity among diverse populations. Sociocultural factors, including race and gender, significantly impact pain experiences, often leading to undertreatment and healthcare disparities. Neurobiological studies suggest differences in pain sensitivity and modulation, influenced by genetic and sociocultural factors. Healthcare disparities in pain management, particularly opioid therapy access, further exacerbate these issues. The essay emphasizes the need for comprehensive interventions addressing systemic biases and offering tailored pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches.

Introduction: Chronic Pain and its Significance
Exploring Cultural and Neurobiological Perspectives of Pain Perception in Black Women
Literature Review
1. Understanding Chronic Pain Perception
2. Sociocultural Influences on Chronic Pain
3. Neurobiological Mechanisms of Pain Perception
Healthcare Disparities and Pain Management
1. Healthcare Disparities in Pain Management
2. Interventions for Chronic Pain Management
Conclusion
1. Summarization of Key Findings
2. Implications of Improving Pain Management Strategies and Reducing Disparities Among Black Women
3. Areas of Future Research

Get this table of contents for free after login.

Extract

[...] Cultural beliefs and practices surrounding pain vary widely across communities, impacting individuals' interpretations and coping mechanisms. Black women, historically burdened with expectations of strength and resilience, face gender-based discrimination and healthcare disparities, contributing to pain-related stressors. Neurobiological mechanisms of pain perception elucidate the complex interplay of sensory, emotional, and cognitive processes within the central nervous system. Studies suggest potential differences in nociceptive sensitivity and pain modulation between racial groups influenced by genetic and sociocultural factors (Ossipov, 2012). Additionally, exposure to chronic stressors, including racism, can sensitize pain pathways, leading to increased pain perception and severity. [...]

[...] Research examining chronic pain's frequency, intensity, and effect on various communities' quality of life reveals notable differences. Studies indicate that Black people, particularly Black women, have more excellent rates of both chronic pain and its intensity (Gallaway et al., 2020). According to Pandelani et al. (2023), the prevalence of chronic pain in women is 11% higher than in men. The well-being of individuals with chronic pain is greatly impeded, resulting in a reduced quality of life, difficulties with day-to-day functioning, and an increased need for healthcare services, all of which have a substantial financial impact. [...]

[...] Section Neurobiological Mechanisms of Pain Perception Comprehending the neurological mechanisms that underlie pain perception is crucial to appreciating the intricacies of chronic pain and devising efficacious therapies. During pain perception, a complex interaction of sensory, emotional, and cognitive processes occurs in the brain and spinal cord as part of the central nervous system (CNS) (Ossipov, 2012). Several systems are involved in how noxious stimuli cause animals to experience pain. Peripheral transduction of noxious stimuli results in transmission to the central nervous system which is heavily modulated (Ossipov, 2012). [...]

[...] (2022). "Be Strong My Sista'": Sentiments of Strength From Black Women With Chronic Pain Living in the Deep South. ANS. Advances in nursing science, 127-142. https://doi.org/10.1097/ANS.0000000000000416. Drazich, B. F., Jenkins, E., Nkimbeng, M., Abshire Saylor, M., Szanton, S. L., Wright, R., Beach, M. C., & Taylor, J. L. (2022). Exploring the Experiences of Co-morbid Pain and Depression in Older African American Women and Their Preferred Management Strategies. Frontiers in Pain Research, p https://doi.org/10.3389/fpain.2022.845513 Dydyk, A. M., & Conermann, T. [...]

[...] https://doi.org/10.6064/2012/561761. Pandelani, F. F., Nyalunga, S. L. N., Mogotsi, M. M., & Mkhatshwa, V. B. (2023). Chronic pain: its impact on the quality of life and gender. Frontiers in pain research (Lausanne, Switzerland) https://doi.org/10.3389/fpain.2023.1253460. Peacock, S., & Patel, S. (2008). Cultural Influences on Pain. Reviews in pain, 6-9. [...]

docx