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Post-traumatic stress disorder in the community: an epidemiological study
J R Davidson1, D Hughes, D G Blazer
1Department of Psychiatry, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710.
Psychological Medicine
|August 1, 1991
Summary
This study investigated post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) prevalence and risk factors in North Carolina. PTSD was linked to childhood adversity, psychiatric comorbidity, and physical health issues, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a significant mental health concern.
- Understanding its prevalence and associated factors is crucial for effective public health strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the lifetime and six-month prevalence of PTSD in the Piedmont region of North Carolina.
- To identify risk factors and comorbidities associated with PTSD in this population.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study was conducted with 2985 subjects in North Carolina.
- Data collection involved assessing PTSD diagnosis, lifetime prevalence, and associated demographic, social, and clinical factors.
Main Results:
- The lifetime and six-month prevalence of PTSD were 1.30% and 0.44%, respectively.
- PTSD was significantly associated with job instability, family psychiatric history, parental poverty, childhood abuse, and parental separation/divorce before age 10.
- Individuals with PTSD exhibited greater psychiatric comorbidity, higher rates of attempted suicide, increased prevalence of asthma, hypertension, peptic ulcers, and impaired social support.
Conclusions:
- Childhood adversity and socioeconomic factors are significant risk factors for PTSD.
- PTSD is associated with substantial psychiatric and physical health comorbidities, impacting social support.
- Chronic PTSD presents with distinct symptoms, including social phobia and avoidance, necessitating tailored treatment approaches.