Sex Differences in Risk Factors for Generalized Anxiety Disorder in Korean Adolescents

Objectives: This study aimed to examine sex differences in the risk factors associated with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) among Korean adolescents to provide insights for drafting more effective prevention strategies. Methods: Data from 51845 middle and high school students in the 18th Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-based Survey were analyzed. GAD was assessed using the 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder tool, and factors such as grade, academic performance, economic status, living arrangements, smoking, drinking, sexual experience, and physical activity were included. The prevalence of GAD and its association with these factors were compared between male and female students using chi-square tests and logistic regression. Odds ratios were compared statistically to identify sex-specific differences. Results: GAD prevalence was higher among girls (42.1%) than boys (30.1%). Both sexes showed increased GAD risk with lower academic performance, lower economic status, smoking, drinking, and sexual experience. Boys living apart from their families had a higher GAD risk, but this was not significant for girls. Additionally, smoking and drinking were associated with a higher increase in GAD risk in girls than in boys. Conclusion: This study underscores the importance of considering sex differences in the prevention of GAD among adolescents. Tailored sex-specific interventions are crucial for effective prevention and management of GAD in Korean adolescents.