Coffee Consumption is Associated with a High Prevalence of Headache in a Taiwanese Population Study

TL;DR

A study in Taiwan found that drinking coffee is linked to a higher chance of headaches, especially with daily or frequent consumption.

Contribution

This study identifies a significant association between coffee consumption patterns and headache prevalence in a large Taiwanese population.

Findings

Coffee consumption is associated with a 21% increased odds of headache.

Daily or weekly coffee intake is linked to higher headache risk, but monthly consumption is not.

Subgroups like older adults or those with certain health conditions showed no significant associations.

Abstract

The relationship between coffee consumption and headache remains controversial. While caffeine has both analgesic and vasoconstrictive properties, excessive intake is associated with a higher prevalence of headache. This cross-sectional study investigated the association between coffee consumption and headache in a large Taiwanese cohort. Data were obtained from 27,109 participants aged 30-70 years from the Taiwan Biobank. Headache status and coffee consumption patterns, including type, frequency, and daily intake, were assessed via structured questionnaires. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to evaluate associations. Among participants, 19.7% reported headaches. Coffee consumption was significantly associated with increased odds of headache (odds ratio = 1.21; 95% confidence level= 1.14-1.29; p < 0.001). All coffee types, including black coffee, coffee with non-dairy creamer, and coffee with milk, were linked to elevated headache risk. Daily intake of one, two, or ≥ three cups was also associated with higher odds. Frequent coffee consumption (daily or weekly) is linked to higher odds of headache, whereas monthly consumption is not. Subgroup analyses revealed no significant associations between coffee consumption and headache in individuals aged ≥ 65 years or with diabetes, hypertension, depression, or a history of alcohol or tea consumption. These findings suggest that both the amount and frequency of coffee intake are associated with higher occurrence of headache, emphasizing the importance of personalized caffeine recommendations, particularly for individuals prone to headaches.

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