Exploring the Scope and Burden of Migraine at University

The primary aim of this thesis was to explore the scope and burden of migraine in university students. The objectives were to determine migraine prevalence, its impacts, and the environmental and personal factors influencing the condition in both a global and local (Irish) context. Previously, the global prevalence of migraine in university students had been explored, although not in an Irish context, and migraine-associated factors had yet to be comprehensively explored. Additionally, qualitative research on migraine in students had yet to be conducted globally, or in an Irish context. Hence, there was a need for further qualitative and quantitative research in this cohort. Three comprehensive research projects using qualitative and quantitative methodologies were employed: a global systematic review of migraine prevalence in university students, a university-wide survey to obtain the estimated prevalence in an Irish university cohort, and qualitative interviews with university students from three Irish universities who had migraines. This programme demonstrates the tangible impact of research in the following areas: patient, practitioner, and policy. Migraines are currently not well controlled in younger people, consequently creating a substantial burden in this cohort. Suppose migraine in younger people can be mitigated in various ways, as discussed within this thesis. In that case, the burden will not ripple and translate to the same extent for individuals moving from college to the workforce. The findings derived from this project substantially contribute to the migraine literature, deepening our understanding of the scope and burden of migraine. They can also assist in shaping grassroots-level recommendations and policies, thus demonstrating research impact. As migraine is a population-based issue with implications on personal, societal, and economic levels, this research has broader implications. Thus, this research translates from theory to practice.

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