SNP Shot: Genomic Insights

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health disorder defined by the presence of obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are unwanted and persistent thoughts, mental pictures, or urges to do certain things. These obsessions differ from person to person but commonly involve fears of germs or getting sick, a need for order or perfection, or disturbing thoughts about religion, sex, or violence. Compulsions are repetitive actions someone feels driven to perform, such as repeatedly checking things, washing, counting, organizing, following set routines, or asking for reassurance. These actions are done to reduce anxiety and are not pleasurable activities like compulsive gambling, eating, or sexual behavior.

Almost everyone has obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviors sometimes. However, in OCD, these thoughts and behaviors consume more than an hour each day and interfere with daily functioning at work, school, or in relationships. Individuals with OCD typically feel anxious and distressed because of the need to address their obsessions or compulsions.

OCD typically begins in childhood or adolescence for about half of those affected, and in early adulthood for most others. It is rare for OCD to develop after age 40. It tends to start earlier in males, but in adulthood, it affects females slightly more often. The severity of OCD symptoms can fluctuate over time, but the disorder typically persists long-term.

Some individuals with OCD also have other mental health conditions such as generalized anxiety disorder, depression, phobias, panic disorder, or schizophrenia. OCD can also co-occur with neurological conditions like Tourette syndrome and related disorders, traumatic brain injury, stroke, or dementia.

Inheritance:

How OCD is inherited is not fully understood. However, the risk of developing OCD is higher in close relatives (like siblings or children) of someone with the condition compared to the general population. It seems the genetic risk varies in different families for reasons we don't yet understand. Still, most people who have a close relative with OCD will not develop the disorder themselves.