Migraine

This article provides prevalence and incidence estimates of migraine among Canadians aged 12 or older. Associations with selected socio-demographic factors and health characteristics are also examined. Selected health indicators and medication use, as well as health care use and attitudes, are discussed, comparing migraineurs with non-migraineurs.

The findings are based on the cross-sectional and longitudinal household components of the first three cycles (1994/95, 1996/97 and 1998/99) of Statistics Canada's National Population Health Survey. Information on hospital stays is from the 1997/98 Hospital Morbidity Database, maintained by the Canadian Institute for Health Information.

Cross-tabulations were used to estimate the prevalence and incidence of migraine. Associations of migraine with selected factors were examined using generalized logistic regression.

In 1998/99, migraine was most prevalent among women, 25- to 54-year-olds, Whites, and individuals in low-income households. The odds of being diagnosed with migraine were higher for women with pre-existing sinusitis, bronchitis or emphysema, compared with women without these conditions. The odds of this disorder for men were associated with previously diagnosed arthritis or rheumatism.