Abstract text (incl. figure legends and references)

Objective: To highlight migraine impact in terms of symptom, functional, social & economic burden among Indian housewives.

Methods: A cross sectional survey was conducted from 20th April 2022 – 21st June 2022 in 300 adult male and female (1:1) migraine patients. Survey questionnaire was validated by a steering committee of 10 Indian neurologists. Data was collected using telephonic & face to face interview mode. Results were analysed using descriptive statistics

Results: Our study included 120 housewives; of which 34% reported 4-7 monthly migraine days (MMDs), 40% 8-14MMDs & 26% had 15 days or more. Major symptoms observed were headache (88%), fatigue (62%), Blurred vision (60%), loss of appetite (57%) & dizziness (47%). Average duration of migraine episode was 5.9 hours. Migraine resulted in productivity loss of 3.8 days/month and 2.3 hours/day. 85.8% of housewives reported that migraine has impacted their social life. Of these, 74% felt guilty, 63% felt isolated & 47% felt depressed / helpless. 69% felt that migraine may damage their relationship with spouse. 100% housewives with children (n=95) reported that migraine has affected their children; 62% reported compromised academics, 57% with reduced ability to parent, 69% for anxiety in children, 67% for frustration & 45% for mood change / irritability. Indirect cost of migraine was INR 8958/6 months in addition to direct medical costs which was less than other females.

Conclusion: Migraine impact among Indian housewives is significantly high. Total cost incurred for housewives is the least, highlighting healthcare neglect. Holistic approach of patient education, lifestyle interventions & target specific pharmacotherapy may improve their quality of life.

Key words: Migraine Burden; India; Housewives; Quality of life