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Epidemiology of tension-type headache
B S Schwartz1, W F Stewart, D Simon
1Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University, School of Hygiene and Public Health, Baltimore, Md 21205, USA.
JAMA
|February 12, 1998
Summary
Episodic tension-type headache (ETTH) is common, affecting 38.3% of the population. Chronic tension-type headache (CTTH) is less prevalent but causes greater individual impact, though ETTH has a larger societal effect.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Neurology
- Public Health
Background:
- Tension-type headache (TTH) is a widespread condition with limited population-based epidemiological data.
- Understanding TTH prevalence is crucial for public health initiatives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the 1-year prevalence of episodic tension-type headache (ETTH) and chronic tension-type headache (CTTH).
- To analyze demographic differences (sex, age, education, race) in TTH prevalence.
- To characterize headache attack frequency and pain intensity.
Main Methods:
- A population-based telephone survey was conducted in Baltimore County, Maryland, from 1993 to 1994.
- 13,345 community subjects were interviewed using International Headache Society criteria.
- Outcome measures included headache diagnosis, lost workdays, and reduced effectiveness at work, home, and school.
Main Results:
- The 1-year prevalence of ETTH was 38.3%, with higher rates in women, peak prevalence in the 30-39 age group, and higher rates among Whites and those with higher education.
- The 1-year prevalence of CTTH was 2.2%, also higher in women, with prevalence decreasing as education levels increased.
- ETTH resulted in 8.3% reporting lost workdays and 43.6% reporting reduced effectiveness; CTTH cases reported significantly more lost workdays and reduced effectiveness days compared to ETTH.
Conclusions:
- Episodic tension-type headache is highly prevalent and significantly impacts daily functioning.
- Chronic tension-type headache, while less prevalent, has a greater individual impact but a smaller overall societal impact compared to ETTH.