Factors negatively affecting a migraine-friendly workplace in healthcare

Objectives. This study aimed to assess migraine prevalence among healthcare workers, identify work-related productivity loss and determine the need for a migraine-friendly workplace. Methods. An online survey was conducted among employees from 18 hospitals in a healthcare group, using a three-question ID-migraine test for diagnosis. Data collection was conducted between October and November 2023. The survey collected sociodemographic data, migraine characteristics, most bothersome symptoms, migraine disability assessment scale (MIDAS) scores, and work productivity and activity impairment (WPAI) data. The survey also inquired about workplace factors that worsen migraines. Results. The study included 666 participants, 366 (54.9%) diagnosed with migraine. Participants experienced a mean of 7.44 (SD 6.06) headache days per month, with 51.9% reporting severe headache intensity. Severe MIDAS scores were found in 47% (n = 172). WPAI scores were mean (SD) 4.71% (11.07) for absenteeism, 50.97% (25.53) for presenteeism, 52.24% (25.89) for overall work productivity loss and 55.07% (27.16) for non-work-related activity impairment. The most bothersome symptom was photophobia (43.2%). Common workplace migraine triggers included lighting conditions (79.5%), inadequate rest environments (70.4%) and prolonged screen exposure (69.6%). Conclusions. Improving lighting, creating comfortable rest areas, reducing screen time, shortening hours and lightening workloads could reduce productivity loss in workplaces.