Prevalence of anxiety disorders among visitors at a military primary health center in UAE.

BACKGROUND

Anxiety disorders are common. However, individuals suffering from anxiety disorders often do not seek treatment. These disorders impose a high individual and societal burden, especially on military personnel and their families, and place a significant burden on healthcare systems as care is often sought from primary care physicians rather than specialized professionals. This study was undertaken to determine the prevalence and correlates of anxiety among visitors at a Military Primary Health Center.

RESULTS

Anxiety disorders were high in our study population. Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) was the most common, while social phobia was less prevalent. 72.5% were 18-40 years old and 63.5% were males. 68% were military personnel, 23% were military personnel family, and the rest were retired. The most common symptoms were sleep disturbances (60.4%), irritability (55%), and restlessness (51.4%). GAD, specific phobia, and panic disorder were more likely in divorced people, and chronic diseases were more likely in people suffering from GAD.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of anxiety disorders was considerably higher among visitors at a Military Primary Health Center due to the high stress levels and occupational difficulties associated with an unstable social and family life. Counseling services and follow-up of diagnosed cases should be available at the primary health care level for improved healthcare delivery by the primary care or family health physicians.