Headaches in a university setting: the case of students at the Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Douala

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Headaches are among the most common reasons for consultations in general medicine and neurology. Few studies have been conducted in university settings in Cameroon to assess headaches and their impact on university students. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of headaches and identify associated factors among medical students at the University of Douala. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2022 among medical students. The impact of headaches on quality of life was assessed using the Headache Impact Test (HIT-6). Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify predictive factors. RESULTS: A total of 1,004 students were included. The one-year prevalence of headaches was 77.7%. Primary headaches accounted for 75% of cases. On average, students missed 1.18 ± 0.13 days of school due to headaches over the past three months. Over half (51.3%) reported a significant negative impact on quality of life. Female sex (p = 0.005, OR = 1.539, 95% CI: 1.137-2.082) and studying more than 14 h per day (p = 0.019, OR = 1.500, 95% CI: 1.069-2.105) were identified as independent predictive factors. CONCLUSION: Nearly four out of five medical students at the University of Douala reported headaches, with significant effects on their quality of life. Female sex and excessive study time were independent predictors. Interventions to reduce academic overload and address headache management are needed to improve student well-being.