OCD prevalence statistics
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Global OCD Prevalence Statistics
Large-scale studies across multiple countries show that the lifetime prevalence of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in the general population ranges from about 1% to 4%, with annual or 12-month prevalence rates typically between 0.8% and 3%1249. For example, a major cross-national survey found a combined lifetime prevalence of 4.1% and a 12-month prevalence of 3.0% across 10 countries, indicating that OCD is a persistent condition for many people2. Earlier studies using similar diagnostic criteria in seven countries reported annual prevalence rates between 0.4% and 1.8%, with most countries clustering around 1%19. In Canada, the diagnosed prevalence was found to be 0.93%3, while a Latvian study reported a one-month prevalence of 0.6%10.
OCD Prevalence by Age and Gender
Research consistently shows that OCD often begins in adolescence or early adulthood, with over 80% of cases starting by early adulthood2410. Younger adults are more likely to experience OCD than older adults410. Among older adults, a recent meta-analysis estimated the worldwide prevalence at 2.4%, with higher rates in Asia (3.5%) and among women (2.7%)5. Overall, women are about 1.6 times more likely to experience OCD in their lifetime compared to men, with lifetime prevalence rates of 1.5% for women and 1.0% for men45.
OCD Prevalence in Specific Populations
Among college students in India, the point prevalence of OCD was found to be 3.3%, with an additional 8.5% meeting criteria for subthreshold OCD7. In clinical settings, the prevalence of diagnosed OCD is much lower, with one large health maintenance organization in the US reporting a 1-year prevalence of 0.084%, suggesting that many cases in the community are not recognized or treated in clinical practice8.
OCD and Comorbidity
OCD is frequently associated with other mental health conditions. Studies show high rates of comorbidity with mood disorders (such as depression and bipolar disorder), generalized anxiety disorder, alcohol dependence, and substance abuse2310. In people with eating disorders, the lifetime prevalence of OCD is much higher, at about 13.9%, and current prevalence is 8.7%6. Negative childhood experiences and psychological distress are also more common among those with OCD37.
Treatment and Recognition Gaps
Despite its prevalence and impact, OCD remains underdiagnosed and undertreated, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Only about 20% of people with OCD receive any mental health treatment in a given year, with treatment rates much higher in high-income countries (40.5%) than in low- and middle-income countries (7.0%)2. Many individuals with OCD report not receiving the care they need, highlighting a significant gap in mental health services38.
Conclusion
OCD affects about 1% to 4% of the population worldwide, with higher risk among women and younger adults. It often co-occurs with other mental health conditions and is associated with significant distress and impairment. However, many people with OCD remain undiagnosed and untreated, underscoring the need for better recognition and access to care globally.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic