The prevalence and impact of migraine | Brian Grosberg, M.D.
Peter Attia MDPublished on September 2, 2026
Summary authored by editor@wellifi.com
TLDR Summary
Migraines are a common yet often misunderstood neurological condition, disproportionately affecting women. With a severe shortage of specialized care, understanding the types and impacts of migraines is crucial for better management and support.
Key Points
- Many people experience migraines without recognizing the symptoms.
- Approximately 12% of the population is affected by migraines, with women disproportionately affected.
- Episodic migraines occur less than 15 days a month, while chronic migraines occur 15 or more days a month.
- There is a significant shortage of headache specialists in the United States.
Understanding Migraine: An Overlooked Neurological Condition
Migraines are often dismissed as just severe headaches, but they are actually a complex neurological disease that affects millions of people, particularly women. In this article, we will explore the prevalence of migraines, the disparity in care availability, and the different types of migraines that people experience.
The Prevalence of Migraine
Many individuals suffer from migraines without realizing it; they may experience them a few times a year and attribute the symptoms to fatigue or stress. Studies indicate that approximately 12% of the population suffers from migraines, with women being disproportionately affected—nearly 18% of women experience migraines, which translates to almost one in five.
The Impact of Migraines
Migraine can significantly impair daily functioning, yet many individuals manage to push through their symptoms, often dimming lights or altering their behaviors to cope. The severity of migraines can vary widely among individuals; some may only experience episodic migraines, while others are burdened with chronic migraines.
Episodic vs. Chronic Migraine
Episodic migraines are characterized by fewer than 15 headache days per month, whereas chronic migraines occur on 15 or more days monthly. Those with chronic migraines often find themselves debilitated, spending a significant portion of their time in pain.
The Shortage of Headache Specialists
While the demand for headache care is high, the supply of trained specialists is alarmingly low. Currently, there are only around 50 fellowship-trained headache neurologists graduating each year in the United States. This shortage makes it challenging for individuals suffering from migraines to receive the care they need.
Conclusion
Migraine is a widespread and often misunderstood condition that requires greater awareness and improved access to care. Understanding the impact of migraines and the need for specialized treatment can help those affected seek appropriate help and improve their quality of life.
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