Work

Association of chronic pain and BMI with frailty among individuals aged 60 years and older in Beijing: a cross-sectional study

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Purpose This study aimed to determine the complex associations between frailty and multiple influencing factors. Methods This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 629 community-dwelling older adults. Frailty was assessed using the FRAIL scale with key predictors. Three nested linear regression models were used to examine the main, quadratic, and interaction effects of these variables. Results Frail individuals had significantly lower cognitive function and higher pain levels than their non-frail counterparts. Pain in specific body regions (head, limbs, and back) were more common in the frail group. BMI significantly moderated the relationship between pain and frailty, with a stronger association observed at higher BMI levels. Conclusions Failty is closely linked to pain, and cognitive decline, BMI amplifies the effect of pain on frailty risk. These findings underscore controlling weight and managing chronic pain in older adults may mitigate the risk of frailty and promote healthy aging.

Source: Scientific Reports

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-026-77325-8

Authors: Yanzhen Hu, Jinghua Xia, Dan Zhao, Ling Wang, Xuemei Lu

Institutions: Capital Medical University, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Frailty in Older Adults

Subfield: Geriatrics and Gerontology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,690