Summary:
Despite scarce data pertaining to drug sales in Greece, the lack of large-scale
epidemiological studies has made it difficult to elaborate on putative
differences regarding drug utilization patterns between the two sexes. Herein,
we sought to investigate whether sex may have an impact on medication trends of
the Greek population. The data reported are part of a survey conducted under
the supervision of the National Center for Social Research. Information was
collected from 2,499 Athenian citizens. Probability of drug use was assessed
through Pearson Chi Square (X2) test of independence and Odds Ratio, while
logistic regression was implemented to clarify whether sex or other
socioeconomic and morbidity factors may influence drug utilization. Women
consumed more drugs as compared to men. Sex proved to be a differentiating
factor influencing the use of analgesic/non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs,
cardiovascular, anxiolytic and antidepressant drugs, as well as drugs for the
treatment of thyroid diseases and osteoporosis. Present results further
implicate other socioeconomic factors (e.g. education, employment and financial
status) in the harnessing of drug use in Greece. To the best of our knowledge,
this is one the largest pharmacoepidemiological studies to report that Greek
women consume more drugs and present different medication patterns, as compared
to men. Further research is considered imperative in order for the awareness of
prescribers, policy-makers, and the general public on this sensitive matter to
be increased.
Keywords:
Pharmacoeconomics, Use of medicines, Gender, Age, Morbidity
