Prevalence of Migraine Headache in the United States

Migraine headache is a significant public health issue in the United States. This study examined migraine prevalence, frequency, and related disability across various demographics. In 1989, researchers sent questionnaires to 15,000 households to gather data. A total of 20,468 respondents completed the survey, achieving a 63% response rate. The study found that 17% of females and 6% of males reported annual migraines. The highest prevalence occurred in individuals aged 35 to 45 years. Additionally, migraine prevalence was higher in low-income households, exceeding 60% compared to higher-income groups. Interestingly, the level of disability among migraine sufferers did not depend on gender or income. However, higher-income groups experienced fewer headache occurrences. It is estimated that 8.7 million females and 2.6 million males suffer from migraines, with millions experiencing monthly attacks. Females aged 30 to 49 from low-income households face the highest risk. Clinical relevance: This study highlights the need for targeted migraine treatments, especially for low-income women.