Genetic and environmental influences on psychiatric comorbidity: a systematic review.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The purpose of this review is to systematically appraise the peer-reviewed literature about the genetic and environmental determinants of psychiatric comorbidity, focusing on four of the most prevalent types of psychopathology: anxiety disorders, depression, conduct disorder and substance abuse.

Methods

We summarize existing empirical research on the relative contribution that genetic, nonshared and shared environmental factors make to the covariance between disorders, and evidence about specific genes and environmental characteristics that are associated with comorbidity.

Results

Ninety-four articles met the inclusion criteria and were assessed. Genetic factors play a particularly strong role in comorbidity between major depression and generalized anxiety

SUBMITTER: Cerda M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2888715 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature