Norway NAV reports rising migraine diagnoses among benefit recipients

New data from NAV indicates a significant rise in the number of individuals receiving Work Assessment Allowance (AAP) due to migraine as a primary diagnosis. By the end of 2025, approximately 3,700 people were receiving AAP for migraines, representing a 22 percent increase from the previous year. This upward trend continued into 2026 with an 18 percent increase. Experts suggest this may be due to better diagnosis and registration rather than a sudden increase in the condition itself.

Conversely, there are positive trends regarding younger demographics. NAV reports that the total growth of AAP recipients is beginning to level off, marking the lowest growth rate since 2020. Specifically, among those aged 18–29, the number of recipients decreased by 300 compared to the same period last year. Hege Nilssen, Director of the Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration, emphasized the importance of ensuring young people establish a stable foothold in the workforce.