M.A.G.N.U.M. Migraine Awareness Group: A National Understanding for Migraineurs

The M.A.G.N.U.M. Migraine Awareness Group: A National Understanding for Migraineurs is a national organization that is dedicated to promoting public and governmental awareness of migraine disease as a neurologic disease; assisting individuals affected by migraines, their families, and co-workers; and helping to improve the quality of life of affected individuals worldwide. Migraine pain is due to an abnormal change in the diameter of cranial blood vessels and may be associated with several symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, difficulties with speech, and sensations of light (auras). MAGNUM, which was founded in 1993, is committed to changing federal legislation to include migraine as a disability; increasing public awareness of migraine as a serious medical condition; providing affected individuals and family members with information about all aspects of migraine disease, such as trigger mechanisms, the medical and lifestyle options available in the treatment of migraine, and current pharmacologic advances; and offering referrals to quality regional medical facilities. MAGNUM is also dedicated to establishing working relationships with medical and research centers around the country and is currently working with the Department of Health and Human Services Agency for Health Care Policy and Research to develop the Clinical Practice Guidelines for Chronic Pain: Headache. MAGNUM also has a web site on the Internet that describes the organization’s mission and goals; discusses its history; and includes a FAQ (frequently asked questions) area and additional information on all aspects of migraines.