Disparities in Migraine Diagnosis for Children of Color
Non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic/Latino children in the pediatric emergency department (ED) are less likely to be diagnosed with migraine and undergo diagnostic testing compared to non-Hispanic White children. White children are twice as likely to leave the ED with a migraine diagnosis and are more likely to undergo brain imaging and other tests. These disparities persist even after adjusting for socioeconomic factors, suggesting potential discrimination. The mismanagement of these children in the ED can negatively impact their subsequent care, treatment, and future research. Headache specialists express frustration and concern over the lack of accurate diagnoses and appropriate treatment for minority populations.