The Journal of Headache and Pain is calling for submissions to our Collection on Focus Africa. Migraine is a major cause of disability worldwide, yet research efforts and healthcare strategies remain unevenly distributed across regions. In Africa, diverse populations and healthcare landscapes present unique challenges in the recognition, diagnosis, and management of migraine and other headache disorders. This thematic collection, Focus Africa, aims to enhance understanding of these conditions by exploring epidemiological trends, healthcare disparities, cultural influences, financial constraints, gender-related factors, and the availability of treatment options across the continent.

We invite submissions of original research, systematic and narrative reviews, editorials, rapid reviews, and commentaries on topics including, but not limited to:

• The prevalence, burden, and impact of migraine and other headache disorders across African countries

• Socio-economic and cultural determinants of headache disorders in Africa

• Insights into the pathophysiology of migraine from an African perspective

• Barriers to headache care, healthcare inequalities, and policy solutions

This Collection provides a dedicated platform for African researchers and clinicians to contribute to global headache science while addressing the specific needs of the region. By fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange, Focus Africa aims to drive meaningful advancements in migraine and headache disorders research and care across the continent.

Therefore, the collection welcomes researchers from author groups all with their main affiliated institution in Africa. Cross-continental authorship groups are welcome to submit their work to The Journal of Headache and Pain outside of this collection.

Springer Nature offers article processing charges (APC) waivers and discounts for articles published in our fully open access journals whose corresponding authors are based in the world’s lowest income countries (see our APC waivers and discounts policy for further information). Requests for APC waivers and discounts from other authors will be considered on a case-by-case basis and may be granted in cases of financial need (see our open access policies for journals for more information). All applications for discretionary APC waivers and discounts should be made at the point of manuscript submission; requests made during the review process or after acceptance are unable to be considered. Should applications for financial support via the above process be unsuccessful, authors are encouraged to reach out to the journal.

The thematic series titled "The Epigenome and Transcriptome in Headache Disorders" focuses on the latest advancements in the studies on the epigenome and transcriptome in headache research, aiming to elucidate the complex neurological mechanisms underlying headache disorders, particularly migraine and tension-type headaches. This collection explores how the regulation of gene expression with a special emphasis on its epigenetic and transcriptomics components with corresponding techniques are being applied to analyze clinical, neurophysiological, and molecular data, uncovering patterns and subtle relationships within the intricate landscape of headache-related phenomena.

The studies of the epigenome and transcriptome offer new perspectives for understanding the complex interplay between genetic predispositions, environmental triggers, and individualized symptomatology. This collection delves into how epigenetic modifications influence the onset, frequency, and individual variability of headaches, providing insights that support the development of personalized treatment strategies and advancing the field of precision medicine.

Additionally, the collection highlights the potential of the epigenome and transcriptome in enhancing early diagnosis, predicting headache occurrences, and optimizing treatment approaches. Through innovative molecular biology techniques, the collection aims to offer a deeper understanding of headache disorders and pave the way for more effective therapeutic interventions.

The collection also invites discussion on the ethical implications of diagnostic and therapeutic approaches based on epigenetic and transcriptome findings. Our goal is to improve the quality of headache diagnosis and treatment in an effective and ethically responsible manner.

This Collection supports and amplifies research related to SDG 3, Good Health and Well-Being.

All submissions in this collection undergo the journal’s standard peer review process. Similarly, all manuscripts authored by a Guest Editor(s) will be handled by the Editor-in-Chief. As an open access publication, this journal levies an article processing fee (details here). We recognize that many key stakeholders may not have access to such resources and are committed to supporting participation in this issue wherever resources are a barrier. For more information about what support may be available, please visit OA funding and support, or email OAfundingpolicy@springernature.com or the Editor-in-Chief.