Epidemiology of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and other anxiety disorders in the Czech Republic

Abstract

Introduction

The most frequently psychiatric ailments in Europe are anxiety disorders

Objectives

The goal of our study is to estimate the prevalence of general anxiety. disorder (GAD) and other anxiety disorders.

Methods

Personal interviews were conducted with a sample of 3,244 Czech citizens (between 18–64 years old). The Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (M.I.N.I.) had been used to estimate the prevalence of psychiatric conditions in respondents.

Results

In sum, 8.3% (95% CI: 7.6 - 9.0) of the respondents fulfilled the criteria for current anxiety disorder. Generalized anxiety disorder was the most prevalent of all anxiety disorders; comprising 3.6% (3.0% in males and 4.2% in females). The current prevalence for other anxiety disorders are: panic disorder 1.6%, social anxiety disorder 2.1%, OCD 2.2%, and PTSD 1.4%. Prevalence of anxiety disorders is higher in females compared to males (10.3% to 6.1%). Approximately 44% of respondents with anxiety disorders reported psychiatric treatment during their lifetime (4.9% inpatient treatment) in comparison to 13% without diagnosis of any anxiety disorder.

Conclusions

The results confirmed the extent of anxiety disorders in the adult population of Czech Republic. The fact that a majority of individuals who receive a diagnosis are never treated for mental health disorder denotes that early identification in a primary care level should be improved.