Migraine care in the sub-Saharan Africa region

Abstract

Background Migraine is a prevalent neurological disorder in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Despite its significant burden, migraine care in SSA faces numerous challenges. Healthcare services are limited, with primary care providers often lacking specialized knowledge in headache disorders. The scarcity of neurologists exacerbates the issue, leading to inadequate diagnosis and treatment. Public awareness about migraine is low, and social stigmatization further hinders effective care. Essential medications for migraine are often unavailable or unaffordable, and traditional medicine is frequently used as an alternative. Objectives This narrative review highlights the barriers to migraine care in SSA, including limited access to specialists, inadequate training of primary care providers, and the high cost of treatment. It also discusses the availability and use of evidence-based treatments, the role of traditional medicine, and the importance of public awareness and education. Methods A literature search was conducted on PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science to identify papers on migraine epidemiology in SSA, access to care and treatment. Conclusion The article proposes strategic interventions to improve migraine care, such as enhancing education and training for healthcare providers, developing Africa-specific clinical guidelines, integrating traditional medicine with conventional care, and leveraging digital health solutions. By addressing these challenges, SSA can improve migraine care and reduce the associated disability.