Are Chinese men less susceptible to anxiety and depression?. A community-based cross-sectional survey from Hong Kong

Abstract

Background: Many epidemiological data show that depression and anxiety are much more common in women than in men. Literature also reveals that men and women manage these issues differently. The aim of this study was to measure the role of gender in the frequency of symptoms, perception and health-seeking behaviours of unipolar affective disorders among the Chinese population in Hong Kong. Methods: 840 adults were conveniently sampled on the streets of five different districts in Hong Kong in 2004. The structured questionnaire had four sections including demographic data, anxio-depressive symptoms, knowledge about mood disorders and, medical-seeking and disclosure behaviours. Principal components analysis was applied to investigate the number of underlying factors associated with the symptoms and, the effects of gender and age on their occurrence. Results: Hong Kong Chinese men had reportedly fewer anxiety-related symptoms, but no such difference was observed in depressive symptoms. Fewer men admitted understanding of affective disorders or worried about having the disorder. Statistically significantly more men believed that they could get better without any help. The choices of therapists were different between men and women, and men were less likely to disclose to another person. Conclusions: The findings of this study highlight gender difference in clinical presentation and perception of affective disorders. Further research on the expression of symptomatology and the need to develop a more gender-sensitive diagnostic tool is recommended. © 2006 WPMH GmbH.