Prevalence of migraine and its clinical presentation in Egypt: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Background Migraine is a highly prevalent neurological disorder globally, causing significant disability and impacting quality of life. While its burden has been extensively studied worldwide, data on its prevalence, associated factors, and characteristics in Egypt remain limited. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to synthesize available evidence to better understand the epidemiology and predictors of migraine in Egypt. Methods A systematic search was conducted in databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and regional platforms like the Egyptian Knowledge Bank. Studies were included if they were cross-sectional, conducted in Egypt, and reported the prevalence of migraine using validated methodological differences. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed independently by two reviewers, following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Meta-analysis was conducted using a random-effects model to pool prevalence estimates, and heterogeneity was assessed using the I 2 statistic. Results Out of 156 records identified, six studies met the inclusion criteria, representing diverse populations across various Egyptian governorates. The pooled prevalence of migraine in Egypt was 17.3% (95% CI 12.8–21.9%), with higher rates observed in females (27.1%) compared to males (8.6%). Common triggers included psychological stress, irregular sleep, fasting, and hormonal changes. Associated symptoms such as photophobia (85.8%), phonophobia (85.8%), and nausea (58.9%) were frequently reported. Quality assessment revealed that four of the included studies were of high methodological quality, while two were moderate. Heterogeneity between studies was substantial ( I 2 = 74%), attributed to variations in study populations and methodological differences. Conclusion Migraine is a prevalent condition in Egypt, particularly among females and younger individuals. Identifying common triggers and predictors can inform tailored interventions and public health strategies. Further research is needed to explore treatment gaps and improve healthcare access for migraine patients in Egypt.