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Headache epidemiology. Emphasis on migraine
1Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
Neurologic Clinics
|May 1, 1996
Summary
Migraine is a common cause of disability, particularly affecting women aged 25-55. Many individuals with migraine, even severe cases, do not seek medical care, highlighting a gap in treatment access.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Neurology
- Public Health
Background:
- Migraine is a prevalent neurological disorder causing significant temporary disability.
- Epidemiologic studies are crucial for understanding migraine's distribution and impact.
- International Headache Society (IHS) criteria are standard for migraine diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the epidemiology of migraine using population-based studies.
- To identify demographic groups with the highest prevalence of migraine.
- To assess the utilization of healthcare services by migraine sufferers.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of large-scale, population-based epidemiologic studies.
- Application of International Headache Society (IHS) criteria for diagnosis.
- Data collection from diverse international cohorts (Denmark, US, France, Canada).
Main Results:
- Migraine prevalence is highest among women aged 25-55 and in lower-income households in the US.
- A significant number of individuals with disabling migraine do not consult physicians.
- High migraine prevalence exists beyond the typically identified high-risk groups.
Conclusions:
- Migraine affects a broad demographic, with specific groups at higher risk.
- Underutilization of healthcare services by migraineurs is a significant concern.
- Further longitudinal research is needed to understand migraine incidence, natural history, and comorbidities.