Workplace productivity - A review of the impact of migraine and its treatment

Migraine is a common disorder characterised by recurrent episodes of disabi lity. Despite the high prevalence of migraine, darn have been lacking on it s impact in a working population. The advent of new therapies has stimulate d interest in this area, and evidence is now available that documents the s ubstantial impact of migraine on workplace productivity and the likelihood of untreated migraine leading to unemployment or underemployment for the pa tient. This paper reviews current findings of both observational and interventiona l studies about the impact of migraine on productivity and employment. When considered in the light of migraine demographics, the high prevalence of m igraine, and its low consultation and treatment rates, this evidence indica tes that improved screening and treatment for this common condition could h ave a substantial impact on worker productivity and on patient well-being.