NATIONAL MIGRAINE SURVEY SHOWS 3.1 million Canadian women victims of migraine TORONTO, Ontario - September 20, 2005 - Results of a national survey released today by the newly established Headache Network Canada reveal that women who suffer from migraine headaches experience a “double burden”: in addition to suffering from incapacitating migraines, they are misunderstood and their quality of life is diminished. Thirty-two per cent of Canadian adult women (or approximately 3.1 million) suffer from debilitating migraine headaches. Furthermore, an average of 20.8 days are lost every year by Canadian female migraine sufferers incapacitated by their condition; 92 per cent say they are kept from attending work or school and often miss family and social events. “These findings are certainly an eye-opener,” says Valerie South, Treasurer of Headache Network Canada. “The data shows that migraine headaches literally disable the person. They can cause recurring, total although temporary disability that impacts individuals' as well as families’ lives. The number of lost days also sheds light on the economic consequences in the workplace.” Canadian overview A heavy toll on society “If we add up the numbers on a national basis, we arrive at the staggering figure of 63.4 millions lost days every year”, says (local medical expert). “If we look at women between the ages of 25 and 55 ─ considered our most productive years, the total of 42.9 million days lost can give us a measure of the real havoc this dysfunction can unleash on the lives of the families, the workplaces and society in general.” A double burden for migraineurs “The survey confirms how these women see their suffering compounded by isolation and a lack of understanding from those close to them, either at home or at work. The fear of being judged negatively by your boss or colleagues just adds to other difficult feeling like guilt that forced absenteeism may bring about,” adds (local medical expert). Women suffer in silence Even when they do consult their physician, as 62 per cent say they have, between 41 per cent and 63 per cent of female migraineurs are not wholly satisfied with their current medication either in terms of its ease of use, its convenience or its effectiveness. “The result is painful: women migraineurs suffer in silence from their symptoms and are most likely to remain unaware of available appropriate medications that can help them manage their condition and to remain functional,” adds Headache Network Canada’s Valerie South. “It seems women only consult when their back is to the wall whereas they should see their doctor sooner. Shrugging it off will just not do, and it’s not ‘normal’ to experience headaches of any type on a regular basis.” Coping with migraine attacks: minority seek physician help High dissatisfaction = Unmet relief “Despite this unmet need, an average of only 38 per cent say they have asked their physician about more suitable or effective medication”, says the HNC’s Valerie South. “Women are suffering needlessly while fast-acting, more effective, convenient and specific treatment options are available,” says (local medical expert). “Their reluctance to discuss their condition with a physician may make them feel that what they have achieved is the most relief they can experience with their current medication. That can be a painful mistake with this chronic condition.” Migraine symptoms to look out for About the survey About the Headache Network Canada (HNC) For further information or to arrange an interview with (local medical expert), please contact: Headache Network Canada |
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Published on the Help For Headaches Web Site |