Epidemiology

Lifetime prevalence of cluster headache is reported as 0.12%, although data are limited and estimates vary.[1][5] Approximately 80% of affected people have the episodic form of cluster headache and 20% have the chronic form; episodic cluster headache can change to the chronic form and vice versa.[1][5]

This is one of the few primary headaches that affects men predominantly. The male-to-female ratio is reported to be approximately 2.5:1; this has fallen in more recent studies, possibly due to fewer misdiagnoses in women.[1][5]

Data about any racial and ethnic differences in cluster headache are limited. One review suggested that there is a greater male predominance, lower prevalence of chronic cluster headache, less restlessness, and less circadian periodicity in Asian people, compared with European and North American populations.[6]

Onset of cluster headache can occur at any age, but is usually between 20 and 40 years.[1] Although extremely rare, it has been reported in children as young as 2 years.[7]

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