Prevalence of Tension-Type Headache Among University Staff: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Tension-type headache (TTH) is one of the most common forms of headache globally, often triggered by stress, fatigue, and poor posture, factors frequently experienced by university administrative staff. Although headaches are widespread, limited data exist regarding their prevalence in non-academic university personnel.
Objective: To determine the prevalence of tension-type headache among administrative staff at the Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2022 to February 2023 involving 66 administrative staff selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire based on standard diagnostic criteria for TTH.
Results: Among the participants, 1 individual (1.5%) was classified as having tension-type headache, while 17 individuals (25.8%) met the criteria for probable tension-type headache. The remaining 48 participants (72.7%) reported no symptoms consistent with TTH.
Conclusion: The prevalence of confirmed tension-type headache among administrative staff was relatively low. However, a significant proportion experienced probable TTH, suggesting a need for early identification and preventive strategies in occupational health settings.

Keywords: prevalence, tension-type headache, cross-sectional study, administrative staff, university, occupational health