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The prevalence of body dysmorphic disorder: a population-based survey

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  06 March 2006

WINFRIED RIEF
Affiliation:
Brigham and Women's Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
ULRIKE BUHLMANN
Affiliation:
Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
SABINE WILHELM
Affiliation:
Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
ADA BORKENHAGEN
Affiliation:
University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
ELMAR BRÄHLER
Affiliation:
University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany

Abstract

Background. Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a highly distressing and impairing disorder characterized by a preoccupation with imagined or slight physical defects in appearance. Well designed studies on its prevalence and on base rates for diagnostic criteria are rare. Therefore this study aimed to reveal prevalence rates of BDD in the general population and to examine clinical features associated with BDD.

Method. Of 4152 selected participants 2552, aged 14–99 years, participated in this German nationwide survey. Participants were carefully selected to ensure that the sample was representative; they were visited by a study assistant who provided instructions and help if needed. Participation rate was 62·3%. DSM-IV criteria for BDD, as well as subthreshold features (e.g. individuals who consider some part(s) of their body as ugly or disfigured, but do not fulfill all BDD criteria) were examined. We also assessed suicidal ideation associated with the belief of having an ugly body part, as well as the desire for cosmetic surgery. Furthermore, somatization symptoms were assessed.

Results. The prevalence of current BDD was 1·7% (CI 1·2–2·1%). Individuals with BDD reported higher rates of suicidal ideation (19% v. 3%) and suicide attempts due to appearance concerns (7% v. 1%) than individuals who did not meet criteria for BDD. Somatization scores were also increased in individuals with BDD, relative to those without. BDD was associated with lower financial income, lower rates of living with a partner, and higher rates of unemployment.

Conclusions. Our study shows that self-reported BDD is relatively common and associated with significant morbidity.

Type
Original Article
Copyright
© 2006 Cambridge University Press

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