Question

What is the estimated prevalence of schizophrenia in U.S. adults, at what age does it typically peak in onset, and is there a gender difference in the age of onset?

a) Prevalence: 2%, onset peaks in the early 20s for both genders
b) Prevalence: 1%, onset peaks in the late 30s for males, early 40s for females
c) Prevalence: 4%, onset peaks in the late 20s for both genders
d) Prevalence: 3%, onset peaks in the early 30s for males, late 30s for females

Answer 1

Schizophrenia has a prevalence of 1% among U.S. adults, with peak onset in late adolescence or early 20s for most individuals. Males generally experience earlier onset than females.

Step-by-step explanation:

The estimated prevalence of schizophrenia in U.S. adults is approximately 1%. When examining age of onset, most individuals receive a diagnosis in their late adolescence or early 20s, which is the peak period for the onset of schizophrenia. However, it is important to note that there is a recognized gender difference in the age of onset. Typically, males are diagnosed at a younger age than females, with the disease often manifesting itself in the late teens to early 20s for males, while females may experience the onset in their late 20s to early 30s.

Furthermore, research including epidemiological studies like the National Comorbidity Survey Replication, has suggested that factors such as genetic risk and environmental influences play a role in the development of the disease. This is supported by studies that show a variation in the likelihood of developing schizophrenia based on the combination of genetic risk and the environment in which individuals are raised.