New Definium Therapeutics study links rising generalized anxiety disorder prevalence to growing burden in US healthcare system (2020-2023)

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in the United States is increasing in diagnosed prevalence and overall burden, according to a retrospective longitudinal study reported by Definium Therapeutics. Using de-identified HIPAA-compliant health claims data from 2020 to 2023, the study found diagnosed GAD prevalence rose from 5.4% in 2020 to 6.6% in 2023, with a 3-year cumulative prevalence of 10.3% (more than 1 in 10 U.S. adults). Annual incidence stayed high at about 2.1% to 2.3%, and women accounted for 67% of cases. The study also highlights strong association with major depressive disorder. The analysis argues these updated real-world estimates matter because older prevalence figures can be outdated or based on survey methods and DSM-IV criteria, and because many patients do not achieve sustained symptom relief with existing treatments. It frames the findings as support for improved access to care and for developing more effective GAD treatments.