A cross-sectional survey was conducted among adolescents attending outpatient clinics in the 3 sites. Study participants provided demographic information and completed a modified version of the Premenstrual Symptoms Screening Tool. They also completed the modified Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview screen for comorbid psychiatric conditions.
Five-hundred thirty-seven patients participated in the study. The participants were between 13-21 years old (mean [SD] =16.9 [2.02] years). The overall prevalence of PMDD was 4.1 % (Maiduguri, Nigeria 6.5 % ; Lagos, Nigeria 3.1 % ; and 2.9 % in Akron, United States). The differences were not statistically significant (P = .167). The prevalence of moderate to severe premenstrual syndrome ranged from 12.4 % -16.3 % among the 3 sites, with an overall prevalence of 14.5 % . There was a significantly higher prevalence of other mood disorders in Akron (19.3 % ) compared to the Nigerian sites (P < .001.). This difference across cultures was statistically significant.
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder is prevalent across different cultures. It is a chronic condition that causes significant morbidity among adolescents. There is a need for simple diagnostic methods for early detection and evidence-based management guidelines.