Prevalence of headache in schoolchildren: relation to family and school factors

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to determine the prevalence of recurrent headaches among schoolchildren in Göteborg and the relation of headache to school and family variables. A stratified sample of 1297 pupils was selected to be representative of the Göteborg population. Data were obtained by means of questionnaires. Twenty-six per cent had "headache once a month or more" and 6% had "headache several times a week or daily" (frequent headache). There was a gradual increase of headache with age. In the third grade there was a marked increase of frequent headache. In the highest school level (grades 7-9), girls had significantly more headache than boys. In the lower school level (grades 1-3), a greater number of pupils in the class increases the risk of frequent headache. Pupils in the intermediate school level (grades 4-6) reported more frequent headache in districts with high unemployment. It is concluded that headache among schoolchildren is a health problem which merits increased attention.