XASIM Feb p45-50

The development of the diagnostic and classification criteria for headache disorders from the International Headache Society has benefited not only practicing headache specialists but also epidemiologists. We now have a wealth of data from international epidemiological studies on the prevalence and cost of migraine and other headache disorders. The data reveal the significant impact these disorders have on society in terms of direct and indirect costs. Given the extremely high prevalence of migraine and tension-type headache, research efforts should focus on these 2 headache disorders; greater emphasis should be placed on diagnosis during medical training, and neurological pain treatment centers should be established. This paper reviews the results of many international studies to offer a global perspective on migraine and headache disorders. (Advanced Studies in Medicine 2001;1(2):44–49)