Quality of Life and Psychiatric Comorbidities Associated with Migraines in Medical Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

AbstractObjectivesThis study aims to assess the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and psychiatric comorbidities among medical students suffering from migraines at the University of Khartoum.Materials and MethodsA descriptive observational cross-sectional study was conducted on 78 medical students diagnosed with migraines. Participants completed a self-reported questionnaire that included the SF-12 Health Survey to assess HRQoL and the Hopkins Symptom Checklist (HSCL-25) to evaluate psychiatric symptoms.Results42.3% of students reported poor quality of life, particularly in the mental component (MCS) compared to the physical component (PCS). Psychiatric symptoms, including anxiety and depression, were prevalent in 70.5% of the participants. Gender was the only sociodemographic factor significantly affecting both HRQoL and psychiatric comorbidity, with females reporting poorer physical health and higher rates of psychiatric symptoms than males, consistent with findings from other studies.ConclusionQuality of life in regard to the mental aspect is significantly impaired in medical students suffering from migraine. Psychiatric comorbidities, namely depression and anxiety, are common in these patients. Universities should keep reports of students who are diagnosed with migraine and provide support programs and follow-up regarding medical treatment and psychiatric evaluation.