Pan-American migraine prevalence: Findings from the Americas’ migraine observatory study (AMIGOS)

Cephalalgia. 2026 Mar;46(3):3331024261420837. doi: 10.1177/03331024261420837. Epub 2026 Mar 6.

ABSTRACT

IntroductionAnalyzing the epidemiology of headache disorders is fundamental for understanding their behaviour and designing effective public health strategies. Epidemiologic studies conducted in individual countries often lack consistent methodologies, limiting broader interpretation. The Americas’ Migraine Observatory Study (AMIGOS) is a Pan-American epidemiological study designed to evaluate the burden and access to treatment of migraine and other headache disorders across the Americas. Here, we present data on migraine prevalence and disability.ObjectivesTo describe and compare the prevalence and burden of migraine in the Americas at a specific time point using a unified sampling methodology. Additionally, to identify regional variations and potential factors contributing to differences in prevalence, providing a foundation for targeted public health strategies.Materials and MethodsData were collected online or via telephone from a sample representative of the demographic and social characteristics of each country, with a confidence level of 98% and a margin of error of 5%. We conducted both qualitative and quantitative research on key aspects of headaches among 16,202 individuals in 19 countries from Canada to Chile. Migraine diagnosis was made based on the ICHD-3 criteria.ResultsThe overall prevalence of migraine was 9.7% (13.2% among females, 6.5% among males). The highest prevalence was observed in Brazil (13.8%), Canada (13.2%), and the United States (12.7%), while the lowest prevalence was found in Bolivia (5.5%), Paraguay (7.1%), and Argentina (7.3%). Participants typically experienced 4 headache days per month, and chronic migraine prevalence was estimated at 1.3%. The migraine burden, as measured by Years Lived with Disability (YLDs), was highest in the United States.ConclusionThis is the first comprehensive Pan-American migraine epidemiological study. Findings indicate that migraine is highly prevalent in the Americas, with significant variations among different countries. Genetic, socioeconomic, and environmental factors may explain these observed differences.

PMID:41789851 | DOI:10.1177/03331024261420837