Migraine Knowledge, Lifestyle Habits, and Disability Level among Medical and Non-Medical Students

Abstract

Migraine is the world’s seventh most significant cause of disability-adjusted-life in people aged between 18 and 55 years. The aim of this study was to assess migraine knowledge, lifestyle habits, and disability level among medical and non-medical students. Research design: A descriptive, cross sectional design was used. Setting: The research was conducted in the selected faculties at Zagazig University, Egypt. Subjects: The study included 965 students; 510 medical and 455 non-medical students. Tools: Students filled in a questionnaire focusing on demographics, medical history, the diagnosis of migraine was made according to the International Headache Society criteria, manifestations of migraine, knowledge about migraine, knowledge about factors increasing, relieving and preventing the pain, Migraine Disability Assessment Test, and Lifestyle variables were enquired. Results: The results showed that 82.5% of medical students suffered from migraine compared to 91.2% of non-medical ones. Moreover, 84.3 % of the medical group and 56.7% of the non-medical group had satisfactory knowledge about migraine. Additionally, 71.7% of the medical group and 66.5% of the non-medical group had mild disability, while only, 5% and 3.1% respectively had no disability. As well, 46.1% of the medical group and 40.9% of the non-medical group had high life style habits, which was moderate for 38.2%and 37.6% of both groups respectively. Conclusion: The study revealed a high prevalence of migraine in the studied students’ university. Moreover, the majority of the medical group and more than half of the non-medical group had satisfactory knowledge about migraine. Furthermore, less than three quarters of the medical group compared to two thirds of the non-medical group had mild disability. As well, about three quarters of the medical group and two thirds of the non-medical group had mild disability. While, less than half of medical students compared to almost two fifths of non-medical ones had high lifestyle habits and there is a positive correlation between total knowledge and total disability and total lifestyle among medical and non-medical students. Recommendations: Early screening and diagnosis of migraine and adequate management can be beneficial for students to reduce the burden of migraine and consequently enhance their academic performance.