[Migraine: epidemiological data, repercussions on daily life and socioeconomic cost]

Studies made on the basis of IHS criteria on the prevalence of migraine show relatively homogeneous results, that is to say about 12% of the adult population is prone to migraine attacks, with a marked female bias (female/male ratio, 3.7:1). Migraine-associated comorbidity has not been extensively researched due to significant methodological problems. Migraine as a risk factor in relation to cardiovascular disease remains a subject of discussion, and migraine with aura appears to present a cerebral infarct risk in young women taking oral contraception. There is an established and significant association between migraine, anxiety and depressive disorders. Certain studies have determined the important repercussions of migraine on the quality of life. Some subjects are reluctant to contact a doctor, and therefore voluntarily deny themselves access to medical treatment to relieve their condition. The socioeconomic cost of migraine attacks is high, and the direct cost in France is estimated at about 4 billion French francs. It is quite probable that the indirect costs (e.g., absenteeism, reduced efficiency at work) are even higher.