A new survey by the Migraine Trust shows that people from ethnic minority backgrounds in the UK are more likely to receive poorer migraine care and face discrimination linked to their condition.
Among 2,200 respondents, 23% of mixed-ethnicity, 19% of Asian and 16% of Black participants said their ethnicity had negatively affected their care, compared with just 7% of white respondents. Many reported racism, poorer treatment and fears that their migraines would not be taken seriously.
Black respondents were also more likely to fear workplace discrimination (37% versus 26% of white respondents), while 19% of Asian and 14% of Black respondents worried they would not be believed about their symptoms.
Individuals like Abigail Kabirou, 26, said stereotypes—such as the belief that Black women tolerate more pain—led to inadequate treatment.
The Migraine Trust and the Neurological Alliance said the findings reveal serious inequalities in care, with gender, ethnicity and income influencing whether patients are believed or properly supported. Many respondents said they had been dismissed, misdiagnosed or told their symptoms were hormonal or exaggerated.
The NHS said all patients deserve high-quality, respectful care and encouraged anyone struggling with migraines to seek medical support, noting that multiple treatment options are available.
