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Affective disorders in five United States communities.
M M Weissman1, P J Leaf, G L Tischler
1Department of Psychiatry, Yale University, New Haven, CT.
Psychological Medicine
|February 1, 1988
Summary
This study examined DSM-III affective disorders in adults. Bipolar disorder affected 1.2% lifetime with no sex difference, while major depression and dysthymia were more common in women.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Epidemiology
- Mental Health Research
Background:
- The Epidemiologic Catchment Area (ECA) Study is a significant public health initiative.
- Understanding the prevalence of affective disorders is crucial for public health planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present age/sex specific prevalence of DSM-III affective disorders.
- To analyze data from a large probability sample of US adults.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the NIMH Epidemiologic Catchment Area (ECA) Study.
- Analyzed a probability sample of over 18,000 adults across five US communities.
- Examined prevalence rates for bipolar disorder, major depression, and dysthymia.
Main Results:
- Bipolar disorder prevalence: 0.7-1.2% (2-week/lifetime), mean onset age 21, no sex difference.
- Major depression prevalence: 1.5-4.4% (2-week/lifetime), mean onset age 27, higher in women.
- Dysthymia prevalence: 3.1%, higher in women.
Conclusions:
- Findings provide essential data on the epidemiology of affective disorders.
- Highlights differences in prevalence and onset by disorder and sex.
- Informs understanding of psychopathology and mental health service needs.