An analysis of digital information-seeking behavior related to chronic pain in Türki ̇ ye: An infodemiology study based on Google trends

Aim: The objective of this study is to examine changes in search interest for the term chronic pain over the years, its distribution across provinces in Türkiye, seasonal variations, and other topics and queries related to chronic pain.

Materials and Methods: This retrospective descriptive infodemiology study was conducted to evaluate online information-seeking trends related to the term chronic pain in Türkiye. Google Trends was used to retrieve search data, with the Turkish phrase "kronik ağrı" entered as the search term. The search was limited to Türkiye as the geographic region and covered the period from January 1, 2004, to May 15, 2026. The Health category and Google Web Search were selected as the search settings.

Results: Relative search interest in chronic pain remained higher after 2011 compared with the 2004–2010 period, despite fluctuations over time. Burdur had the highest level of search interest among all provinces. Search volumes were found to be higher during the spring and winter months. In addition, topics related to chronic pain, including fibromyalgia, anxiety, depression, physical exercise, and neuropathic pain, emerged as the most frequently searched associated subjects.

Conclusions: Online search behavior related to chronic pain varies by time, region, and season. The fact that searches are concentrated around physical and psychological health topics related to chronic pain reflects the need for information regarding the biopsychosocial dimensions of chronic pain. Google Trends data can serve as a useful resource for assessing public interest in chronic pain, health information needs, and awareness of the potential effects of chronic pain on functioning and disability.