Gender differences in Axis I comorbidity among depressed outpatients

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 earing disorders in women.