Migraine Epidemiology, Prevalence and Incidence.

Migraine is a prevalent and disabling brain disorder with strong genetic component. Migraine is ranked 19th by the WHO among the leading causes of years lived with disability. In the US, migraine affects approximately 18% of women and 6% of men (12% of the US population), causing a 50% reduction in productivity at work or school in 51% of affected individuals, and absenteeism at work or school of at least 1 day every 3 months. It is believed that healthcare costs of migraine are $US19.6 billion and €27 billion per year to the US and European economies, respectively.

Migraine is the most frequent diagnosis that compels patients with episodic headaches to seek medical care.

Before puberty, migraine prevalence is higher in boys than in girls. When adolescence approaches, the incidence and prevalence of migraines increases more rapidly in girls than in boys. The prevalence of migraines increases throughout childhood and early adult life until around age 40, declining after that. Overall prevalence is highest from 25 to 55 years of age, usually the most economically productive years.

Migraine prevalence is low in Africa and Asia, high in Central and South America and even higher in North America.

Migraine prevalence seems to be inversely related to household income and education.