A new survey by the Migraine Trust has found significant inequalities in migraine care across the UK, with people from ethnic minority backgrounds far more likely to report poor treatment, racism and fear of discrimination.
Among 2,200 respondents, 23% of mixed-ethnicity, 19% of Asian and 16% of Black participants said their ethnicity had negatively affected their care, compared with just 7% of white respondents. Black respondents were also more likely to fear discrimination at work due to migraines, and many Asian and Black respondents said they sometimes worried they would not be believed about their symptoms.
The charity highlighted stories such as that of Abigail Kabirou, who said stereotypes about Black women and pain tolerance harmed the care she received. Overall, 91% of migraine sufferers had spoken to a health professional, but many reported being dismissed, misdiagnosed or inadequately treated.
Leaders from the Migraine Trust and the Neurological Alliance called the findings unacceptable, urging action from healthcare providers, employers and policymakers to ensure fair, supportive care for all patients.
The NHS said all patients deserve high-quality treatment and encouraged anyone experiencing migraines to seek medical support.
