Breaking ground in migraine management: First Consensus Guidelines from the Headache Society of Singapore

In a pioneering effort, the Headache Society of Singapore (HSS) has released the first edition of consensus guidelines focusing on the approach to headache disorders and management of migraine. Amid a rapidly growing array of therapeutic options, standardizing treatment approaches is crucial. These guidelines provide a pivotal resource for healthcare professionals navigating the complex landscape of headache disorders, with a special focus on migraine management in adults.

Headache disorders, particularly migraine, affect 15 percent of the global population, with a prevalence of 10.1 percent in Asia. Chronic migraine, impacting 2 percent of the population, correlates with reduced quality of life, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain, increasing healthcare resource utilization. Additionally, 50 percent of chronic migraine patients experience medication overuse headaches, contributing to a prevalence of 83 million and 0.9 million years lost due to disability. [Singapore Med J 2023;doi:10.4103/singaporemedj.SMJ-2022-195]

In Singapore, primary care is the first contact for headache patients, while complex cases are referred to neurologists and pain physicians in tertiary care settings. Migraine management involves a comprehensive approach, encompassing acute and preventive treatments (Tables 1 and 2), along with lifestyle and behavioural modifications and avoidance of trigger factors.

Offering comprehensive guidance on a wide range of topics, from the evaluation of headache disorders to the principles of migraine management and application of treatments, the guidelines are designed to streamline decision-making processes and enhance patient care. Healthcare professionals in Singapore with an interest in headache disorders will find these guidelines to be a helpful resource for their daily clinical practice.