Gender and the Development of an AUD

Men are more likely to develop an AUD than women. There are distinct differences in the trajectory of AUD for men and women. Women tend to progress toward use disorders more quickly than men, although evidence is mixed.

There are differences in patterns of treatment seeking between men and women. Women have been found to be less likely than men to receive treatment for AUD. Variation in receiving treatment for AUD may be related to both biological and psychosocial factors, as women presenting with psychiatric conditions are more likely to be identified with and treated for comorbid affective disorders. Women’s traditional role as carers increases stigmatisation and risk of social harms for women and their families and may impede treatment seeking, potentially resulting in late presentation for treatment.