Gender disparities in a psychiatric department in Tunisia

Abstract

Introduction

Gender disparities exist regarding prevalence, symptomatology and risk factors of mental disorders. In Tunisia, there is only one hospital dedicated entirely to mental health which is Razi hospital.

Objectives

The aim of the present study was to assess gender based mental health disparities in a psychiatric department and its related factors.

Methods

A cross sectional and comparative survey was conducted between March and April 2021 in the department of psychiatry D of Razi Hospital including 70 patients with a sex ratio= 1.

Results

The participants were aged between 17 and 68. Men had higher rate of celibacy: 80% of men against 48.57% of women (p=0.009). A total of 11.42% of women were illiterate against 2.85% of men, 48% of men were unemployed against 62.85% of women. There was a significant difference between gender and use of cigarettes, cannabis and alcohol (p<0.001). The diagnosis was mood disorders for 35.42% of women and 17.14% of men and schizophrenia for 57.14% of women and 77.14% of men. Gender and modality of hospitalization were significantly associated (p=0.046): 14% of women were involuntary hospitalized against 40% of men. Time between symptoms onset and consulting is 3.5 years (±5.67) for women and 1.77 (±4.75) for men. The mean number of admissions for women is 1.59 and for men 4.2 (p=0.009).

Conclusions

Onset of mental disorders for women is 3 to 4 years later than men. They have better premorbid functionning and better social networks.Gender disparities are not only determined biologically but also socially.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.