PATIENTS across Tayside are being urged to participate in a study that could revolutionise the identification and treatment of chronic pain across Scotland.
The Chronic Pain Identification Through Using Electronic Records (C-PICTURE) study, led by the University of Dundee’s School of Medicine and backed by the Chief Scientist Office, aims to refine an algorithm capable of identifying chronic pain cases.
With around one in five Scots estimated to be affected, the study seeks to improve healthcare outcomes for those living with long-term discomfort.
Chronic pain, defined as pain persisting for more than three months, is a growing public health challenge but reliable methods for formally identifying cases remain elusive.
The C-PICTURE initiative aims to address this gap by analysing patient data, with consent, to develop and validate a robust algorithm.
By the study’s conclusion, researchers hope to have an accurate tool for assessing chronic pain prevalence and shaping better healthcare services.
Patients from selected GP surgeries will receive letters inviting them to participate – while entirely voluntary, their involvement is seen as vital to achieving the study’s goals.
Professor Lesley Colvin, leading the C-PICTURE study, highlighted its significance: “It is estimated that around one in five people in Scotland are living with chronic pain.
“However, until we can establish a true picture of how prevalent it is in our population, we cannot determine exactly the scale of the issue and how policy makers and healthcare providers can help to meet patient need.
“C-PICTURE is integral to this process. Through analysis of patient information, such as prescribing information, we will be able to develop an algorithm capable of identifying patients living with the condition.
“This process will allow us to refine the algorithm which could shape service planning, influence how local and national health policy for chronic pain is developed, and ultimately improve outcomes for the hundreds of thousands of people we believe are living with long-term, daily discomfort.”
The study plans to engage 2,000 Scottish patients, providing critical insights that could transform chronic pain care nationwide.
Interested patients are encouraged to seize the opportunity to contribute to this potentially life-changing research.
