Gender differences in obsessive-compulsive disorder: findings from a large Indian sample
Anish V Cherian1, Janardhanan C Narayanaswamy2, Biju Viswanath2
1National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, Bangalore, India; K.S. Hegde Medical Academy, Mangalore, India.
Asian Journal of Psychiatry
|May 13, 2014
Summary
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) shows distinct gender differences in India. Men experienced earlier onset and different obsessions/compulsions, while women had higher rates of depression and suicidal risk.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Gender is a potential factor influencing the expression of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms.
- Understanding these gender-specific differences is crucial for tailored treatment approaches.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate gender-based variations in socio-demographic factors, symptom profiles, and comorbid conditions in a large Indian cohort of OCD patients.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 545 patients diagnosed with OCD was evaluated at a specialized OCD clinic in India over five years.
- Data collected included socio-demographic information, symptom characteristics, and presence of comorbidities.
Main Results:
- Male OCD patients exhibited earlier onset, higher prevalence of sexual/religious obsessions, and checking/repeating compulsions compared to females.
- Females with OCD were more likely to be married, presented with contamination fears, comorbid depression, and increased suicidal risk.
Conclusions:
- This study confirms significant gender-related differences in the clinical presentation of OCD within the Indian population.
- Observed variations may stem from a complex interplay of biological and socio-cultural factors, necessitating further research into the underlying biological mechanisms.
- Findings highlight the importance of considering gender in the diagnosis and management of OCD.
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