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Epidemiology of obsessive-compulsive disorder
1Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences (Whittington Site), University College London Medical School, Whittington Hospital.
The British Journal of Psychiatry. Supplement
|November 26, 1998
Summary
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) affects a small percentage of the population, with prevalence rates varying by study. While OCD causes significant distress, minor obsessional symptoms are more common.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) has a long conceptual history, but recent diagnostic criteria highlight challenges in distinguishing its symptoms from other disorders.
- The discrete nature of OCD symptoms remains a subject of debate within psychiatric research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing epidemiological data on the prevalence of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
- To analyze diagnostic criteria and symptom presentation in relation to other psychiatric conditions.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of population-based epidemiological surveys.
- Analysis of data from standardized diagnostic instruments, including the Diagnostic Interview Schedule and the CIS-R.
Main Results:
- Six-month prevalence rates for OCD ranged from 0.7% to 2.1% across nine population surveys.
- A UK national survey reported a one-month prevalence of 1% in males and 1.5% in females.
- Community surveys indicate a higher prevalence in females, with an early age of onset; minor obsessional symptoms are more frequent than diagnosed OCD.
Conclusions:
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is relatively uncommon in the general population.
- Despite its rarity, OCD significantly impacts the well-being of affected individuals.