Epidemiology of Major Depressive Disorder

To present nationally representative data on 12-month and lifetime prevalence, correlates, and comorbidity of DSM-IV major depressive disorder (MDD) among adults in the United States. DESIGN/SETTING/ PARTICIPANTS: Face-to-face survey of more than 43 000 adults aged 18 years and older residing in households and group quarters in the United States. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Prevalence and associations of MDD with sociodemographic correlates and Axis I and II disorders.

The prevalence of 12-month and lifetime DSM-IV MDD was 5.28% (95% confidence interval, 4.98-5.57) and 13.23% (95% confidence interval, 12.64-13.81), respectively. Being female; Native American; middle-aged; widowed, separated, or divorced; and low income increased risk, and being Asian, Hispanic, or black decreased risk (P