J Headache Pain. 2025 Aug 06. 26(1): 180
BACKGROUND: Migraine is a common neurological disorder that has a major negative influence on productivity loss and quality of life. Significant socioeconomic consequences are associated with the condition, such as decreased productivity at work and increased medical expenses. The frequency is higher in women, especially in reproductive age, and the burden varies globally. In India, the prevalence of migraine is 25%; this is higher than the global prevalence of 14.7%. The scoping review is undertaken with an aim to synthesize existing literature that summarizes the impact of migraine on productivity among working professionals, with a focus on its determinants in India.
METHODS: A systematic scoping review, with a comprehensive search strategy, was conducted across major databases. Eligibility criteria for studies to be included focused on prevalence, economic and observational studies involving adults aged 18 and older diagnosed with migraines. Studies conducted from January 2014 to October 2024 in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) were included. Data extraction was standardized, capturing key study characteristics. The methodological quality of included studies was assessed using the JBI score checklist for the assessment of cross-sectional and prevalence studies. The pooled estimates for productivity loss were collated from individual studies and adjusted per capita national income. This pooled productivity loss was used to estimate the per day economic loss based on per capita income.
RESULTS: The systematic search identified 11 relevant articles for LMICs that provided insights into the impact of migraines on productivity and economic outcomes. The evidence highlighted that migraine-related productivity losses ranged from 3% to 4.3% of productive time, translating to significant financial implications. Evidence from India suggests one-year prevalence of migraines is approximately 14.12% to 28.99%, affecting around 213 million cases annually. The pooled analysis obtained from two studies shows that productivity loss due to migraine is 17.3 days per year. This was found to be INR 8731/- annually based on daily per capita income. Taking the prevalence of migraine in India, it leads to a total economic loss of about INR 18,674.35 crore (approximately USD 22.21 billion). This significant burden emphasizes the urgent need for effective healthcare interventions to address and manage migraine disorders in the population.
CONCLUSION: Migraines impose a significant threat to the economy and productivity in India, especially for working professionals and women in their prime working years. Addressing migraine as a public health priority through awareness, early diagnosis, and effective management will not only improve quality of life but also enhance national productivity and economic growth of the country.
Keywords: Economic burden; Migraine prevalence; Productivity loss; Quality of life; Work place impact