PC44. The Link Between Obesity and Migraine: Does This Exist?

Abstract

PURPOSE: Metabolic syndrome is hypothesized to be linked to an increased prevalence and attack frequency of migraine headaches. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between obesity and migraine characteristics. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was performed between 2015-2022. Demographic data, body mass index (BMI, classified per CDC obesity categories) and migraine characteristics, including migraine headache index (MHI, calculated by multiplying frequency, intensity and duration of headaches) of patients aged ≥18 years were recorded. Univariate linear regression models were used to evaluate the associations between measures of migraine severity and obesity. RESULTS: A total of 212 patients with migraine headaches were identified. Seventy-eight percent was female and 22% was male, with an average age of 44.6±12.7 years (average±SD). Higher MHI and number of headaches per month were significantly associated with class 3 obesity (BMI >40, p=0.009), but not with other BMI classes (p>0.05). Intensity and duration of headaches were not associated with severity or number of headaches, respectively. Postmenopausal status was associated with a significantly lower number of migraines per month (p=0.02). CONCLUSION: A higher BMI is associated with increased severity (i.e. MHI) and frequency of migraines, but not with the intensity and duration of headaches experienced. Furthermore, number of headaches decreased after menopause. As fat mass increases in obesity, aromatase expression and consequently estrogen levels are also elevated. Moreover, it is believed that a higher BMI increases entrapment neuropathy. These findings provide new insights into the association between obesity and migraine headaches.