Gender differences in Axis I comorbidity among depressed outpatients

Maurizio Fava, Melissa Abraham, Jonathan Alpert, Andrew A. Nierenberg, Joel A. Pava, Jerrold F. Rosenbaum

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

56 Scopus citations

Abstract

Objective: The aim of our study was to assess gender differences in Axis I comorbidity in patients with a primary diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), as well as gender differences in age of onset of MDD. Methods: The presence of MDD, including age of onset, and of comorbid Axis I disorders were assessed in 396 depressed outpatients. Results: Women were significantly more likely than men to meet criteria for comorbid bulimia nervosa and for simple phobia, while men were significantly more likely than women to meet criteria for lifetime history of alcohol abuse/dependence and other substance abuse/dependence. No other significant gender differences in those comorbid Axis I disorders examined were observed. In addition, the age of onset of the first episode of MDD was significantly lower in women than in men. Conclusions: Our findings are consistent with those of previous studies showing a greater prevalence of alcohol and substance abuse and dependence in men and of eating disorders in women.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)129-133
Number of pages5
JournalJournal of Affective Disorders
Volume38
Issue number2-3
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 5 1996
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Age of onset
  • Comorbidity
  • Gender
  • Major depression

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Clinical Psychology
  • Psychiatry and Mental health

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