TITLE:
Epidemiology of Migraine in Adolescents and Young Adults in Western Madagascar: A School-Based Study
AUTHORS:
Rahamefy Odilon Randrianasolo, Lala Andriamasinavalona Rajaonarison, Julien Razafimahefa, Nomena Finiavana Rasaholiarison, Noel Zodaly, Alain Djacoba Tehindrazanarivelo
KEYWORDS:
Adolescent, Headache, Epidemiology, Madagascar, Migraine
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Epidemiology,
Vol.15 No.4,
November
4,
2025
ABSTRACT: Background: Data on migraine are scarce in Madagascar and mainly concern the capital of the island. Our objective is to determine the prevalence and characteristics of migraine in adolescents and young adults. Methods: A cross-sectional survey among high school students was done in the city of Mahajanga in western Madagascar in January 2021. Structured questionnaires were self-completed under supervision by pupils within their classes. Headache diagnostics were based on ICHD-3. Simple random sampling was carried out with an expected prevalence of 10%, a confidence interval of 95%, a confidence limit of 5%, and a design effect of 3. The annual prevalence of migraine was analyzed. Results: The annual prevalence of headaches was 89.4%, with a crude prevalence of 19.30% for migraine. The prevalence of migraine was 24.4% for females and 13% for males. The mean age of migraine sufferers was 16.80 years. Migraine without auras accounted for 57.50% of cases. Headache attacks were severe in 71.25%. The most frequent triggering factors were sleep disturbances and stress. Preventive treatment must be needed for 10% of subjects. Conclusion: Migraine is common in adolescents and young adults in Mahajanga. The severity of headache attacks and their frequency could have a significant impact on the quality of life of its students.