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Cluster headache prevalence in the Italian general population
Paola Torelli1, Ettore Beghi, Gian Camillo Manzoni
1Headache Center, Section of Neurology, Department of Neuroscience, University of Parma, Italy. paolatorelli@libero.it
Neurology
|February 9, 2005
Summary
Cluster headache (CH) lifetime prevalence in Italy is higher than previously reported, affecting 279 per 100,000 individuals. This study highlights a greater prevalence in men compared to women, indicating a need for further research into CH epidemiology.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Cluster headache (CH) is a debilitating neurological disorder.
- Previous estimates suggest a prevalence of 56 to 69 per 100,000 individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the lifetime prevalence of cluster headache (CH) in a representative Italian general population sample.
- To analyze CH prevalence across different demographics, including gender.
Main Methods:
- A validated self-administered questionnaire screened 10,071 individuals (age >14 years) for possible CH cases based on 1988 International Headache Society criteria.
- Confirmed CH diagnoses were made by neurologists after initial screening.
Main Results:
- The study confirmed 21 cases of CH, yielding an estimated lifetime prevalence of 279 per 100,000.
- Prevalence was higher in men (338 per 100,000) than in women (227 per 100,000).
- Of the confirmed cases, 17 had episodic CH and 4 had chronic CH.
Conclusions:
- The findings indicate a significantly higher lifetime prevalence of cluster headache than previously documented.
- The increased prevalence suggests potential underdiagnosis or regional variations in CH occurrence.
- Further epidemiological studies are warranted to understand the full scope of CH.