Understanding pain risk in Native American adults related to stress and discrimination

The Impact of Structural Racism and Discrimination (SRD) on Mechanisms of the Native American Pain Disparity

Observational University of Oklahoma · NCT05723081

This study looks at how stress and discrimination affect chronic pain risk in Native American adults to see if there are ways to help reduce their pain.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment220 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Oklahoma Academic / other
Locations1 site (Tulsa, Oklahoma)
Trial IDNCT05723081 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates how environmental structural racism and discrimination impact chronic pain risk among Native American adults. It aims to explore the mechanisms by which these societal stressors contribute to increased pain sensitivity and the transition to chronic pain. Additionally, the study will examine psychosocial factors that may help mitigate the negative effects of these stressors on pain perception. By focusing on this underserved population, the research seeks to uncover critical insights into the disparities in chronic pain prevalence.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are Native American adults who do not currently experience chronic pain.

Not a fit: Patients under 18 years of age or those with a history of certain medical conditions or current chronic pain will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and interventions for chronic pain management in Native American communities.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically targeting this population, studies on the effects of stress and discrimination on health outcomes have shown promising results.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Self-identify as Native American/American Indian

Exclusion Criteria:

* \<18 years of age
* Self-reported history of cardiovascular, neuroendocrine, musculoskeletal, or neurological disorders
* Surrent chronic pain, defined as persistent, bothersome pain on more days than not for at least 3 months)
* Self-reported current substance dependence
* Sse of medication that could interfere with testing (e.g., recent use of analgesics, antidepressants, or anti-anxiety medications)
* Inability to speak English
* Current psychosis (assessed by Psychosis Screening Questionnaire)
* Serious cognitive impairment (assessed by \<20 score on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment \[MoCA\])
* Possible peripheral neuropathy (assessed by nerve conduction study)

Where this trial is running

Tulsa, Oklahoma

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Discrimination, RacialStress PhysiologyPainStructural racism and discriminationStress reactivityQuantitative sensory testing
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.