BACKGROUND

Migraine is a complex, neurobiological disorder usually presenting as a unilateral, moderate to severe headache accompanied by sensory disturbances. Migraine prevalence has risen globally, affecting 14% of individuals and 16% of students and carries many negative impacts in both cohorts. With no recent meta-analysis of global migraine prevalence or associated factors in students, this systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted.

DATABASES AND DATA TREATMENT

The review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42020167927). Electronic databases (n = 12) were searched for cross-sectional studies (1988 to August 2021, IHS criteria). Ninety-two articles were meta-analysed and 103 were narratively reviewed. The risk of bias was assessed using an established tool.

RESULTS

The risk of bias ranged from low to moderate. Migraine pooled prevalence (R-Studio) was demonstrated at 19% (95% CI, 16%-22%, p < 0.001, I^2 98%): females 23% (95% CI, 19%-27%, p < 0.001), males 12% (95% CI, 9%-15%, p < 0.001). Gender (p < 0.0001), geographical region (p = 0.01), migraine types (p = 0.0002) and prevalence timeframes (p = 0.02) may be influencing the substantial heterogeneity. Migraine triggers were primarily behavioural and environmental and treatments were predominantly pharmaceutical. Impacts ranged from academic performance impairment to psychological co-morbidities.

CONCLUSIONS

This study offers the most comprehensive overview of migraine prevalence and associated factors in university students. Migraine prevalence in university students has increased and has many negative effects. Enhancing migraine recognition and management at university may have positive implications for an improved educational experience, as well as for the burden migraine currently incurs, both in university and beyond.

SIGNIFICANCE

This global systematic review and meta-analysis of 92 studies and narrative review of 103 studies provide the most comprehensive synthesis to date of migraine prevalence and associated factors in university students. Pooled prevalence has increased to 19%. The significant heterogeneity demonstrated is influenced by gender, geographical region, migraine type and prevalence timeframes. Students manage migraines primarily with pharmaceuticals. Further studies conducted in low and middle-income countries, following headache protocols and reporting frequency of treatment-seeking and medication usage are warranted.