Prevalence of Migraine and Associated Disability Among Auto-Rickshaw Drivers in Lahore During Summer

Abstract

Background: Migraine is a prevalent, disabling neurological disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of moderate to severe headache, often accompanied by sensory disturbances such as photophobia, phonophobia, nausea, and vomiting. Occupational stress and environmental triggers significantly contribute to migraine prevalence, particularly in high-risk populations like auto-rickshaw drivers who are exposed to extreme environmental conditions during summers. Objective: To assess the prevalence of migraine and the extent of migraine-related disability among auto-rickshaw drivers in Lahore during the summer season. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted among 169 male auto-rickshaw drivers aged 18 years and above in Lahore. Participants were recruited using a non-probability convenient sampling technique. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire, which included the ID Migraine™ screening tool, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain intensity, and Migraine Disability Assessment Scale (MIDAS) for disability evaluation. Ethical approval was obtained, and informed consent was secured from all participants. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Version 25.0 with descriptive statistics and chi-square tests, considering p < 0.05 as statistically significant. Results: The prevalence of migraine was 18.9% (n=32). Among migraineurs, 59.4% experienced severe pain, 28.1% reported very severe pain, and 12.5% had moderate pain. Migraine-related disability was categorized as severe in 34.4%, moderate in 28.1%, mild in 15.6%, and little or no disability in 21.9% of cases. A positive family history of migraine was reported by 28.12% of migraineurs. Conclusion: Migraine is highly prevalent among auto-rickshaw drivers in Lahore during summers, with a significant proportion experiencing severe pain and disability. Occupational exposure to environmental stressors may exacerbate migraine prevalence and severity in this population.

Keywords: Automobile Driving, Disability Evaluation, Migraine Disorders, Migraine Disability Assessment, Migraine Disability Assessment Scale (MIDAS), Occupational Health, Prevalence, Pain Measurement