Cross-Sectional Study of the Prevalence of Anxiety Disorders in Urban Versus Rural Populations

Abstract

Background: Rural and urban populations have different anxiety disorder rates, making them a public health issue. Understanding these differences is necessary to build effective, geographic-specific therapies.

Methods: This cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted at MGMMC & LSK Hospital, involving 100 participants equally divided between urban and rural areas. Data were collected from medical records using DSM-5 criteria to diagnose anxiety disorders. The statistical study used descriptive statistics and Chi-square testing to compare varying prevalence rates.

Results: The number ofpeople with anxiety disorders was much higher in rural places (64% vs. 36%) compared to cities. The groups had very different levels of socioeconomic class, as shown by demographic analysis. A statistical analysis showed that there is a big difference (p < 0.05) in the number of people with anxiety disorders living in cities compared to those living in mral areas.

Conclusion: This study shows that rural anxiety problems are rising and require tailored treatments. These studies should focus on mental health care access, awareness, and socioeconomic inequities. These approaches can help public health campaigns improve underprivileged communities' mental health and reduce anxiety disorders.