Frequent Physical Distress

Frequent Physical Distress in United States

United States

Frequent physical distress is based on self-reported poor physical health days. The measure aims to capture the population experiencing persistent and likely severe physical health problems, which may have a significant impact on health-related quality of life and overall wellness. The cutoff point of 14 or more days a month of poor physical health has been validated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as constituting a substantial level of physical impairment. 

Frequent physical distress is associated with chronic health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It is also associated with smoking, obesity and physical inactivity.

Populations that experience a higher prevalence of frequent physical distress include:

• Females compared with males.
• Adults ages 65 and older compared with those ages 18-44. The prevalence is significantly higher with each increase in age group.
• American Indian/Alaska Native and multiracial adults compared with Asian, Hawaiian/Pacific Islander, Hispanic and white adults. Asian adults have the lowest prevalence.
• Adults with less than a high school education compared with college graduates.
• Adults with an annual household income less than $25,000 compared with those with incomes of $75,000 or more. The prevalence is significantly lower with each increase in income level.
• Adults who live in non-metropolitan areas compared with those who live in metropolitan areas. 
• Adults with one or more chronic illnesses compared with those without chronic illnesses.

Strategies to reduce the prevalence of frequent physical distress include reducing the risk of developing chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, obesity and arthritis. This may be done by focusing on evidence-based interventions that curb smoking, increase physical activity and promote healthy eating.

Healthy People 2030 has an objective to reduce the proportion of adults with chronic pain that frequently limits life or work activities. 

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