Study by AHF Reveals the Burden of Migraine in Mexico
Migraine, one of the major causes of disability worldwide, remains underestimated and misdiagnosed in Mexico, according to a new regional study by the Americas Health Foundation (AHF) and supported by Pfizer. The report, titled “A Deep Dive into the Journey of Patients Living with Migraine in Mexico,” is part of a survey conducted across seven Latin American countries from February to August 2025, aiming to understand the physical, emotional, and economic impact of migraine on patients with moderate to severe cases.
Key Findings
- In Mexico, 165 participants took part in the study, with 76% being women in their productive years.
- 25.2% of patients waited more than five years for a formal diagnosis, and nearly 28% remain undiagnosed despite meeting international clinical criteria.
- 43.7% of patients reported their symptoms being minimized or dismissed by healthcare professionals, with a similar proportion receiving incorrect diagnoses related to stress, anxiety, or sinusitis.
- 8% of patients live with chronic migraine, experiencing pain on 15 or more days per month.
- 55% of patients experience prodromal symptoms like fatigue or mood changes, often preceding crises.
- 58% of respondents reported constant frustration or anger, with 40% suffering from depression or sadness due to pain.
- More than half of the participants reported that others minimize their suffering by considering migraine as “just a headache.”
- 53% did not take time off work in the past month, indicating presenteeism (working despite incapacitating episodes).
- 37% acknowledged reduced productivity, and one in five discontinued treatments due to cost.
- Only 25% found it easy to schedule an appointment with a neurologist, while 42% found it difficult or very difficult.
- Half of the respondents lacked medical insurance coverage, and only 12% had complete protection for their treatments.
- More than 50% of patients felt poorly informed about treatment options, and 91% were unaware of support groups.
Expert Insight
“Migraine is not invisible to those who experience it, but the patient’s journey is long and filled with stereotypes. We need to recognize migraine as a debilitating condition with real impacts on people’s lives,” said Dr. Martha García, Head of Migraine at Pfizer Mexico.
Symptoms and Impact
Common symptoms include unilateral stabbing pain (67.2%), light and sound hypersensitivity (73.1%), and crises exceeding nine hours in over 44% of cases, reflecting the severity with which this condition affects quality of life.
The emotional impact is profound, with 58% of respondents reporting constant frustration or anger and 40% suffering from depression or sadness due to pain. The stigma surrounding migraine plays a significant role, as more than half of the participants reported others minimizing their suffering by considering it “just a headache.”
Accessibility and Awareness of Treatment
Access to specialized care is limited, with only 25% finding it easy to schedule an appointment with a neurologist and 42% finding it difficult or very difficult. Additionally, half of the respondents lacked medical insurance coverage, and only 12% had complete protection for their treatments.
These findings highlight a fragmented and unequal system for addressing migraine in the country. The report emphasizes the need to improve medical training, strengthen early diagnosis, expand evidence-based treatment coverage, and provide psychological support.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: What is the main issue highlighted in the study? A: The study reveals that migraine remains underdiagnosed and misunderstood in Mexico, with 25.2% of patients waiting more than five years for a formal diagnosis and nearly 28% remaining undiagnosed despite meeting international clinical criteria.
- Q: What are the common symptoms of migraine? A: Common symptoms include unilateral stabbing pain, hypersensitivity to light and sound, and crises exceeding nine hours in over 44% of cases.
- Q: How does migraine impact patients emotionally? A: The study reports that 58% of respondents experience constant frustration or anger, and 40% suffer from depression or sadness due to pain.
- Q: How accessible is specialized care for migraine patients in Mexico? A: Only 25% of patients find it easy to schedule an appointment with a neurologist, and 42% find it difficult or very difficult. Additionally, half of the respondents lack medical insurance coverage.
- Q: What recommendations does the study propose? A: The study recommends improving medical training, strengthening early diagnosis, expanding evidence-based treatment coverage, and providing psychological support. It also calls for public awareness campaigns to eliminate stigma and promote empathy towards those living with migraine.
