Every June, Migraine Awareness Month prompts important conversations, and the call to action is louder than ever. Migraine isn’t just a headache, it’s a debilitating neurological condition affecting millions of Canadians, many of whom don’t even know they have it. Yet despite its impact, migraine remains a highly misunderstood and underdiagnosed health issue.
Widespread Yet Underrecognized
Leger Healthcare recently conducted a nationwide survey to explore the scope of the issue, both personally and economically. The results reveal a startling truth: only 40% of individuals who experience migraine symptoms have an active diagnosis. That leaves a staggering number of Canadians navigating their symptoms without medical recognition or support. In fact, our survey indicates that approximately 1 in 5 Canadians may currently be experiencing migraine attacks, with many people self-treating without ever receiving proper medical guidance.
The Hidden Toll of Migraine on Lives and Livelihoods
It isn’t just a personal health issue; it’s an economic one. The white paper outlines how migraine can quietly but severely disrupt daily life. Those with an active diagnosis reported experiencing an average of eight headache days per month. Meanwhile, undiagnosed individuals, who are generally not seeking medical care, still reported four days per month lost to migraine symptoms.
That lost time adds up. Leger Healthcare estimates that migraine may cost the Canadian economy 429 million hours in lost productivity each year. That’s the equivalent of $14.6 billion annually, and is driven by missed workdays, presenteeism, early departures, and reduced performance.
The white paper also highlights and quantifies striking disparities in how migraine is experienced, diagnosed, and treated across gender and age groups. For many sufferers, it can disrupt careers, relationships, and daily routines. Certain populations, such as men and younger adults, are less likely to receive a diagnosis or seek medical care, despite showing symptoms. These gaps point to deeper issues in awareness, access, and support that require medical attention.
Our latest white paper explores:
- Who is most likely to be undiagnosed and why
- How people are managing migraine, with or without a diagnosis
- What needs to change to better support those affected
- The impact of migraine on work and productivity on the Canadian economy
👉 Get the full story behind the numbers and download the white paper
