Impact of Chronic Pain on Aspects of Cognition using the ACE-III (v1)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The Impact of Chronic Pain on Aspects of Cognition as Measured by the ACE-III
IRAS ID
348423
Contact name
Nicole Orr
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Edinburgh
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 10 months, 11 days
Research summary
The purpose of the study is to investigate whether the presence of chronic pain impacts upon our cognitive functioning (memory, attention etc.). Research suggests that those who suffer from chronic pain have differences in brain functioning, for example, how pain creates interruptions to attention, and can even change the structures of our brains over time.
Due to the heightened chances of both chronic pain and memory difficulties in later life, it is important that we better understand the link between these. This is particularly important when people are being assessed for dementia, as chronic pain may be impacting upon brain functioning, rather than cognitive decline alone.
Therefore, this study will compare cognitive functioning in groups who do, and who do not experience chronic pain, to establish whether there are differences caused by the presence of chronic pain, which may need to be more closely considered to ensure dementia assessments are as accurate as possible.
The study will aim to recruit a sample via a local Pain Management service in NHS Fife, over the age of 50 years to complete questionnaires on cognition (ACE-III), mood (HADS), and a likert scale rating of perceived pain on day. The study will also aim to recruit a control sample from a similar area, to investigate whether the presence of chronic pain does impact cognitive functioning, and if so, what areas are most impacted.
REC name
North East - York Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/NE/0122
Date of REC Opinion
19 Jun 2025
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion