Advancing Headache Research: Key Priorities for the Next Decade

In a groundbreaking initiative, a multi-stakeholder international group of experts led by the American Headache Society in close collaboration with the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) and the International Headache Society (IHS), has identified critical research priorities for the headache field. These priorities will guide research over the next decade and improve outcomes for individuals with headache disorders.

The Framework: Eight Broad Categories

The research priorities encompass 25 specific areas across eight essential categories:

1. Human Models: Investigate molecular signaling pathways, biochemical alterations, and aberrations in brain structure and function associated with headache disorders.
2. Animal Models: Advance models to better understand headache mechanisms and treatments.
3. Pathophysiology: Investigate the biological processes behind the pain and non-pain symptoms of headache disorders.
4. Diagnosis and Management: Enhance understanding and prediction of headache chronification and remission and identify predictors of treatment outcomes.
5. Treatment: Develop innovative and effective treatment strategies.
6. Disparities: Identify and address disparities in headache care and outcomes among different populations.
7. Workforce Development: Build a skilled workforce equipped to address headache disorders.
8. Quality of Life: Explore how headache disorders affect patients’ well-being and develop interventions that improve quality of life.

For those interested in delving deeper into the specifics of the research priorities, access the initial publication here.

A Model for Change

This initiative is modeled after successful research prioritization efforts in other fields, such as epilepsy. By adopting a similar approach, the aim is to create a significant and sustainable impact on headache research and care.

Engaging the Community

To foster collaboration and gather feedback, a public comment period was launched on May 5, 2023. Over 100 organizations received invitations to review the research priorities and share their insights. Presentations highlighting these priorities were delivered at the American Headache Society 2023 Annual Scientific Meeting in Austin and the International Headache Congress 2023 in Seoul, further emphasizing the initiative’s global reach and importance.

A Publication to Propel Forward

The findings and recommendations have been published in the journal Headache. This publication marks the beginning of a concerted effort to guide researchers as they plan future studies and seek funding. By providing a clear framework, these priorities are expected to significantly influence the direction of headache research.

Moving Forward

As we look to the future, the identified research priorities offer a roadmap for addressing the complexities of headache disorders. By uniting researchers, healthcare professionals, and patient advocates around these goals, we can work towards a future where effective treatments and comprehensive care for headache disorders are within reach for everyone.

Join us in spreading the word about these critical priorities, and let’s work together to enhance the field of headache research.