A new survey by the Migraine Trust has found significant inequalities in migraine care across the UK, with people from ethnic minority backgrounds far more likely to report poor treatment and fear discrimination.
Among 2,200 respondents, 23% of mixed-ethnicity, 19% of Asian, and 16% of Black participants said their ethnicity negatively affected their care, compared with just 7% of white respondents. Many cited racism, poorer treatment, or not being taken seriously. Black respondents were also the most likely to worry about workplace discrimination related to their migraines.
Some participants described harmful stereotypes affecting their care. Abigail Kabirou, 26, said she felt dismissed as a Black woman because of assumptions about pain tolerance.
The Migraine Trust said these inequalities “cannot continue,” noting that stigma and fear prevent many people from seeking help. Although 91% had spoken to a health professional, many reported being misdiagnosed or dismissed—women told their symptoms were “hormonal,” and young people accused of exaggerating.
Neurological Alliance chief executive Georgina Carr said the findings reflect wider problems in neurological care, where gender, ethnicity, and income still influence treatment quality. Both charities called for urgent action from healthcare leaders, employers, and policymakers.
The NHS said all patients should receive high-quality care and encouraged people with migraines to seek support from their GP, emphasising that multiple treatment options are available.
