Prevalence of Migraine and its Impact on Academic Performance among Medical Undergraduates in Sri Lanka: A Cross-Sectional Study
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Introduction: Migraine is a common and disabling neurological disorder that frequently affects young adults, particularly medical undergraduates exposed to substantial academic stress. Migraine-related symptoms may impair cognitive function and academic performance. However, evidence on its burden among Sri Lankan medical undergraduates is limited. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of migraine and its impact on academic performance.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 384 medical undergraduates at the Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka. Data was collected using self-administered validated questionnaires. Migraine was assessed using the validated ID-Migraine screening tool, and self-reported academic performance was evaluated using the Academic Performance Scale.Results: The prevalence of migraine was 31%, with a significantly higher prevalence rate among females (33.7%, p=0.02). Self-reported academic performance is significantly lower among individuals with migraine (mean=27.33, SD±5.46, p=0.02) compared to those without migraine (mean=28.82, SD±6.16).Conclusion: Migraine is significantly prevalent among medical undergraduates with female preponderance. Academic performance is significantly lower among individuals with migraine compared to those without migraine. These findings highlight the need for early identification and appropriate management of migraine among medical undergraduate.
Source: Journal of Tropical Health
DOI: 10.4038/joth.v2i3.84
Institution: Rajarata University of Sri Lanka
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Neurology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7225737288