Prevalence of Migraines Among Medical Students in Saudi Arabia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Headaches are very common and often a common reason people visit emergency departments. Their prevalence among Saudi medical students was higher than the global average but aligned more closely with rates in certain countries. This regional variation may be attributed to factors such as academic pressures, lifestyle, and genetics. This systematic review and meta-analysis focused on assessing the prevalence of migraines among medical students in Saudi Arabia. Six cross-sectional studies were ultimately included in the meta-analysis, reporting a wide range of prevalence rates among Saudi medical students, from 5% to 26%. The pooled prevalence estimate was 23%, indicating a substantial burden of migraines among this population. The findings underscore the importance of tailored strategies and support systems within medical schools to address the impact of migraines on students' academic journey and overall well-being. Standardized diagnostic criteria and awareness programs are essential to effectively managing this condition among medical students. In conclusion, this study sheds light on the significant prevalence of migraines among medical students in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the need for comprehensive management approaches and further research to refine prevalence estimates and develop targeted interventions.