Equity and Disparities in Diagnosis, Management, and Research of Post-Traumatic Headache

Curr Pain Headache Rep. 2022 Jul;26(7):555-566. doi: 10.1007/s11916-022-01058-2. Epub 2022 May 14.

Abstract

Purpose of review: There are notable health disparities and inequities in individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and concussion by race, ethnicity, gender, socioeconomic status, and geography. This review will evaluate these disparities and inequities and assess the social determinants of health that drive outcomes for post-traumatic headache. Interventions for achieving this are also discussed.

Recent findings: Significant disparities and inequities exist in TBI and concussion among people of different races, socioeconomic status, and geographic locations. Migraine is a common symptom post-concussion, for which disparities and social determinants of health are also discussed. Overall, multi-level interventions to reduce these disparities and inequities are reviewed for post-traumatic headache but require further investigation. Interventions are needed to reduce disparities and inequities including public health initiatives, improvements in clinical care, diversity/inclusion training, and research efforts. As literature expands, we can form guidance to identify solutions for eliminating disparities in care of diverse populations.

Keywords: Concussion; Determinants of health; Disparities; Equity; Gender; Migraine; Post-traumatic headache; Race; Racism; Traumatic brain injury.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain Concussion*
  • Brain Injuries, Traumatic* / complications
  • Brain Injuries, Traumatic* / diagnosis
  • Brain Injuries, Traumatic* / therapy
  • Humans
  • Migraine Disorders*
  • Post-Traumatic Headache* / diagnosis
  • Post-Traumatic Headache* / epidemiology
  • Post-Traumatic Headache* / etiology