Global estimates of headaches suggest disorder impacts more than 50% of people

We found that the prevalence of headache disorders remains high worldwide and the burden of different types may impact many

Lars Jacob Stovner, lead author, said: “We found that the prevalence of headache disorders remains high worldwide and the burden of different types may impact many people. File Picture: Kirsty O’Connor/PA

More than half of the global population are affected by headaches every year, new estimates suggest.

A review of the evidence suggests 52% of people across the world are affected by a headache disorder – including tension and recurrent headaches, with 14% reporting migraines.