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01-05-2006

The Epidemiology of Nonspecific Psychological Distress in New York City, 2002 and 2003

Authors: Katharine H. McVeigh, Sandro Galea, Lorna E. Thorpe, Catherine Maulsby, Kelly Henning, Lloyd I. Sederer

Published in: Journal of Urban Health | Issue 3/2006

Abstract

The 30-day prevalence of nonspecific psychological distress (NPD) is 3%, nationwide. Little is known about the prevalence and correlates of NPD in urban areas. This study documents the prevalence of NPD among adults in New York City (NYC) using population-based data from the 2002 and 2003 NYC Community Health Surveys (CHS) and identifies correlates of NPD in this population. We examined two cross-sectional random-digit-dialed telephone surveys of NYC adults (2002: N = 9,764; 2003: N = 9,802). Kessler's K6 scale was used to measure NPD. Age-adjusted 30-day prevalence of NPD declined from 6.4% [95% Confidence Interval (CI): 5.8–7.0] in 2002 to 5.1% [95% CI: 4.5–5.6] in 2003. New Yorkers who were poor, in poor health, chronically unemployed, uninsured, and formerly married had the highest prevalence of NPD. Declines occurred among those who were married, white, recently unemployed, and female. NPD prevalence in NYC is higher than national estimates. A stronger economy and recovery from September 11th attacks may have contributed to the 2003 decline observed among selected subgroups. The excess prevalence of NPD may be associated with substantial economic and societal burden. Research to understand the etiology of this high prevalence and interventions to promote mental health in NYC are indicated.

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Title: The Epidemiology of Nonspecific Psychological Distress in New York City, 2002 and 2003
Authors: Katharine H. McVeigh
Sandro Galea
Lorna E. Thorpe
Catherine Maulsby
Kelly Henning
Lloyd I. Sederer
Publication date: 01-05-2006
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Journal of Urban Health / Issue 3/2006
Print ISSN: 1099-3460
Electronic ISSN: 1468-2869
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11524-006-9049-2

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

The Epidemiology of Nonspecific Psychological Distress in New York City, 2002 and 2003

Abstract

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

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