Aim
The medical and economic impact of back pain in terms of health care costs, lost working days, and early retirement is on the increase in Western industrialised nations. This paper investigates the prevalence of back pain in the German general population and the relationship between social factors, employment status and back pain.Subjects and methods
The first German Health Survey comprised a representative total sample of 6,235 persons between the ages of 18 and 79. The relationship between back pain and social, lifestyle and workplace-related factors was investigated using multivariable logistic regression analyses.Results
The 7-day prevalence for back pain in Germany was found to be 36%, and the 1-year prevalence was 59%. The prevalence rates were significantly higher in women, lower socio-economic classes, non-athletes, smokers and those who are overweight. Depressed mood and allergies co-occurred with back pain more frequently than by chance.Conclusion
This study reports the first representative prevalence data for back pain, and its correlates and associations for the German general population.Keywords Back pain - Correlates - Association - Risk factors - Prevalence