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Somatization among older primary care attenders

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  26 June 2003

B. SHEEHAN ,
C. BASS ,
R. BRIGGS  and
R. JACOBY
B. SHEEHAN
Affiliation:
Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford
C. BASS
Affiliation:
Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford
R. BRIGGS
Affiliation:
Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford
R. JACOBY
Affiliation:
Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford
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Abstract

Background. The importance of somatization among older primary care attenders is unclear. We aimed to establish the prevalence, persistence and associations of somatization among older primary care attenders, and the associations of frequent attendance.

Method. One hundred and forty primary care attenders over 65 years were rated twice, 10 months apart, on measures of somatization, psychiatric status, physical health and attendance.

Results. The syndrome of GMS hypochondriacal neurosis had a prevalence of 5% but was transient. Somatized symptoms and attributions were persistent and associated with depression, physical illness and perceived poor social support. Frequent attenders (top third) had higher rates of depression, physical illness and somatic symptoms, and lower perceived support.

Conclusion. Somatization is common among older primary care attenders and has similar correlates to younger primary care somatizers. Psychological distress among older primary care attenders is associated with frequent attendance. Improved recognition should result in benefits to patients and services.

Type
Research Article
Information
Psychological Medicine , Volume 33 , Issue 5 , July 2003 , pp. 867 - 877
Copyright
© 2003 Cambridge University Press

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