Why women are more likely to have chronic pain than men
New research shows that the resolution of pain is an active process dependent on particular immune cells called monocytes. One particular type of monocyte produces a signaling molecule called IL10, which binds to nerve cells to turn off pain. More IL-10 is produced in men than in women.
Sim et al (2026 Neuroimmunology) say "In humans, pain resolved faster in men than in women after traumatic injury and was associated with higher circulating monocytes
and IL-10 levels in men". And "The slower resolution of pain in women increases their risk
of transitioning to chronic pain".
See https://medicalxpress.com/news/2026-02-chronic-pain-longer-women-immune.html?utm_source=nwletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=daily-nwletter for the story.
Kayley
37 Views
Very interesting! That pain scale has always caused me to pause and think how can we all have the same scale?