Obesity-related Parameters as Potential Contributors to Increased Headache Frequency in Migraineurs

Migraine and obesity often coexist, and both generalized and central obesity may influence the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. This study aimed to investigate the association between obesity-related anthropometric measures and headache burden in individuals with migraine.

This observational study was conducted at King Fahad Hospital of the University, Saudi Arabia, and included 186 patients diagnosed with migraine. Anthropometric data were collected at baseline and again after a minimum follow-up period of 12 months. Headache frequency and severity were evaluated, alongside clinical variables such as dietary habits and medication adherence.

Elevated body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) were observed in 43.1%, 67.2%, and 41.4% of participants, respectively. At follow-up, 51.6% of patients reported an increase in headache frequency, with significantly higher BMI values among this subgroup (p = 0.018). Increased headache frequency was significantly associated with elevated BMI (p = 0.029), high WHtR (p = 0.023), and follow-up increases in both body weight and WC (p < 0.01). However, in multivariate logistic regression analysis, only follow-up increases in weight and WC remained marginally associated with increased headache frequency (OR: 1.94, 95% CI: 0.97-3.89; p = 0.05). Baseline values for BMI, WC, and WHtR were not independent predictors.

While obesity-related measures were prevalent among migraine patients, they were not independent predictors of increased headache frequency when behavioral factors were considered. These findings underscore the need for a comprehensive approach to migraine management, emphasizing lifestyle modifications.