Migraine prevalence, diagnosis, and disability

The goal of the Canadian Migraine Forum was to work towards improving the lives of Canadians with migraine by reducing their migraine-related disability. This paper reviews the epidemiology and diagnosis of migraine, and the effects of migraine on health related quality of life. Many patients with migraine do not consult a physician for their headaches, and when they do they often do not receive a correct diagnosis. The discussion at the Forum concluded that better education, both for physicians and the public, on issues relating to migraine was a necessary step in improving migraine diagnosis. The degree of disability caused by migraine is often not recognized by society, and can be substantial for individuals with migraine. Once again, education of the public and of the health professionals who see these patients is key, so that the best migraine management can be instituted to minimize the impact of migraine on the individual, the family, and society at large.