Association Between Migraine and Frailty Among Middle-Aged and Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study Based on CHARLS.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Frailty represents a geriatric syndrome characterized by diminished physiological reserves and increased vulnerability to adverse health outcomes. While chronic diseases are established frailty risk factors, the relationship between migraine-a prevalent neurological condition affecting millions globally-and frailty development remains unexplored, representing a critical knowledge gap in geriatric neurology.
METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional analysis using baseline data (2011-2015) from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS), a nationally representative cohort. Frailty was assessed using a validated 32-item Frailty Index based on deficit accumulation theory. Multivariable logistic regression models examined migraine-frailty associations, with sequential adjustment for sociodemographic factors, lifestyle behaviors, and comorbid conditions. Subgroup analyses evaluated effect modification across key demographic and clinical variables.
RESULTS: Among 13,798 participants (mean age 57.6 ± 9.1 years; 49.6% female), 598 (4.3%) reported migraine and 1,315 (9.5%) met frailty criteria. Migraine participants demonstrated a 4.5-fold higher frailty prevalence (37.0% vs. 8.3%, p < 0.001) and significantly elevated median frailty scores (20.0 vs. 7.8, p < 0.001). A multivariable analysis revealed a robust independent association (OR = 5.61, 95% CI: 4.51-6.99, p < 0.001). Smoking status significantly modified this relationship (P-interaction = 0.025),…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause. Reported size: 13,798 participants or records.
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