Welcoming the Future of Headache Medicine at the 68th Annual Scientific Meeting
Over a thousand headache medicine professionals from 34 countries and 46 states enjoyed exciting research and therapeutic presentations at the 68th Annual Scientific Meeting from June 4-7, 2026.
The Annual Scientific Meeting continued to attract notable names in headache research, including keynote speaker Luana Colloca, MD, PhD, an international expert in the fields of placebo and nocebo effect, international speakers from Spain, Brazil, the UK, and Saudi Arabia, and members of the Society’s Board of Directors.
The meeting’s many offerings included plenary sessions, scientific presentations, interactive workshops, and poster sessions, with over 300 abstracts presented across the weekend.
New Faces and New Opportunities to Learn
Five early-career researchers were invited to the annual meeting through our newly launched Student Research Scholarship, expanding access and exposure to the AHS community.
This year’s meeting also included a greater number of non-neurologist speakers, including professionals in pain medicine, otolaryngology, gastroenterology, and physical therapy. These overlapping areas of medicine and research add important insights to headache management, and their presentations were very well received!
We debuted "Clinical Hot Topics,” which focused on side effect data from head treatments. This inaugural program ran concurrently with our “Hot Topics in Basic Science," providing attendees with ample opportunities for scientific discussion and potential clinical usefulness.
A Peek Into the Future
Moderated by Emily Law, PhD and Phil Zhang, MD, “Industry Abstracts” continued to capture attendees’ attention with the newest clinical trial data for treatments. Abstracts gave insight into research findings about next-day migraine risk using machine learning, characterizations of morning migraine from a nationwide study, and the efficacy, outcomes, and adverse profiles of select medicines.
“Plenary #1: New Frontiers in Treatments” also drummed up excitement among audiences. Moderated by Mark J. Burish, MD, PhD, FAHS and Levi P. Sowers, PhD, speakers presented new drug targets in various stages of preclinical and clinical development. The session concluded with “Clinical Perspective: For Which Patients Would I Use These Novel Treatments?” and a panel discussion to further understanding and application in care.
2026 Annual Scientific Meeting Award Recipients
This year’s outstanding award recipients were celebrated by their peers for their meaningful contributions to the field of headache medicine through research, education, clinical care, and service to the headache community. Many recipients shared their original research and lectures, adding to the growing body of impactful and actionable knowledge.
Making Time for Fun and Connection
Attendees were not only excited to connect over the latest research but also to socialize and relax at the Exhibit Hall Happy Hour, the annual AHS Tonight talent show, and the closing Wine and Cheese Reception – complete with red snappers and a sangria bar.
Attendees also enjoyed puppies at the sponsored Doggy De-stress Zone (courtesy of Pet Rescue by Judy) and an outdoor wildlife show, alligator included.
The Annual Scientific Meeting continues to deliver high-quality and innovative education and programs that foster collaboration and conversation from experts around the world to improve the lives of those affected by migraine and other headache disorders. AHS extends special thanks to its attendees, faculty, and sponsors which make this meeting possible.
As we look back on another invigorating gathering, we’re excited to provide content from the meeting via AHS Education On Demand. Access is complimentary for in-person attendees, and pre-courses are available separately.
We look forward to seeing you at the Scottsdale Headache Symposium in December. Registration opens Thursday, July 16 for AHS members and Tuesday, July 28 for non-members. Be sure to mark your calendars for next year’s 69th Annual Scientific Meeting in San Diego, from June 10-13, 2027, where we’ll continue working together to advance headache care.