Prevalence of Migraine in India: A Meta-Analysis Based on Diagnostic Criteria and Gender Differences

Author(s)

Pranav R. Mhetre, Pharm D1, Tanvi Rajesh Mhetre, Pharm D2, Anjana Barola, PhD3.
1Student, Dr. D.Y. Patil Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Pimpri, India, 2Dr. D.Y. Patil Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Pimpri, India, 3Dr. D. Y. Patil Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Research, Pimpri, Pimpri, India.
OBJECTIVES: 1. To estimate the pooled prevalence of migraine in India through a meta-analysis of published studies2. To evaluate how migraine prevalence varies based on the diagnostic criteria used.3. To assess gender-based differences in the prevalence of migraine across the Indian population.
METHODS: A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar to identify relevant studies reporting the prevalence of migraine in Indian populations. A random-effects meta-analysis was performed using the DerSimonian and Laird method to account for variability among studies. Subgroup analyses were conducted based on the diagnostic criteria employed and by gender (male vs. female). Statistical heterogeneity was assessed using the I² and τ² statistics, and publication bias was evaluated using Egger’s regression test.
RESULTS: A total of 15 studies were included in the meta-analysis, with a pooled migraine prevalence of 18.19% (95% CI: 17.62-18.77%). Subgroup analysis by diagnostic criteria:
  • ICHD-2 (5 studies): 16.58% (95% CI: 15.72-17.45%)
  • ICHD-3 (3 studies): 24.83% (95% CI: 23.79-25.86%)
  • ID Migraine (3 studies): 11.89% (95% CI: 10.20-13.58%)
  • Not specified (2 studies): 13.22% (95% CI: 11.60-14.83%)
Substantial heterogeneity was observed across studies (I² = 98.6%, τ² = 101.96, p < 0.0001). The test for subgroup differences by diagnostic criteria was statistically significant (χ² = 261.47, df = 3, p < 0.0001), indicating variation in prevalence based on diagnostic approach. Subgroup analysis by gender:
  • Males (15 studies): 18.86% (95% CI: 11.24-26.49%, I² = 98.2%, τ² = 178.26)
  • Females (15 studies): 26.91% (95% CI: 26.16-27.67%, I² = 99.2%, τ² = 362.21)

CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of migraine in India is influenced significantly by the diagnostic criteria used and by gender. The highest prevalence was observed in studies using ICHD-3 criteria and among females. These findings emphasize the need for standardized diagnostic practices and targeted gender-specific migraine management strategies in India.

Conference/Value in Health Info

2025-11, ISPOR Europe 2025, Glasgow, Scotland

Value in Health, Volume 28, Issue S2

Code

EPH190

Topic

Epidemiology & Public Health

Disease

Neurological Disorders

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