hyperhidrosis

Are There Gender Differences in Hyperhidrosis Prevalence?

Shad Douglas

08 Aug 2025 — 2 min read

Summary

Research indicates that there are gender differences in the prevalence of hyperhidrosis, with women generally reporting higher rates of this condition. Various factors, including hormonal and genetic differences, might contribute to these disparities. Below is a detailed exploration of the gender differences in hyperhidrosis prevalence.

Understanding Hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition characterized by excessive sweating that exceeds the normal requirements for thermoregulation. It can significantly impact quality of life by causing distress and embarrassment [Doolittle et al., 2016].

Gender Differences in Prevalence

Studies have consistently found differences in hyperhidrosis prevalence between genders. Overall, women are more likely to report hyperhidrosis than men.

Statistics and Studies

Several population-based studies have examined these differences:

A large-scale study in the United States found that hyperhidrosis was more prevalent in women (2.8%) compared to men (2.0%) [Strutton et al., 2004].
Research in Japan showed similar trends, with more women affected, likely due to hormonal influences [Fujimoto et al., 2015].

Hormonal Influences

Hormonal fluctuations in women, such as those occurring during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, can exacerbate sweating, potentially explaining higher prevalence rates [Doolittle et al., 2016].

Genetic Factors

Genetic predispositions also play a significant role in the development of hyperhidrosis. Some studies suggest that women might inherit genes associated with this condition more frequently than men [Cohen & Cohen, 2018].

Implications for Treatment

Understanding gender differences is crucial in tailoring effective treatments. For instance, treatment protocols might need to account for hormonal variations in women [Mayo Clinic, 2011].

Therapeutic Approaches

Common treatments include topical antiperspirants, oral medications, botulinum toxin injections, and surgical interventions. Gender-specific considerations can optimize these treatments [Mayo Clinic, 2021].

Conclusion

While hyperhidrosis affects both genders, there's evidence suggesting a higher prevalence among women due to hormonal and genetic factors. Recognizing these differences is important for developing effective and personalized treatment plans.

References

[Doolittle et al., 2016] Doolittle, J., Walker, P., Mills, T., & Thurston, J. (2016). "Hyperhidrosis: An Update on Prevalence and Severity in the United States." National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI).
[Strutton et al., 2004] Strutton, D. R., Kowalski, J. W., Glaser, D. A., & Stang, P. E. (2004). "US prevalence of hyperhidrosis and impact on individuals with axillary hyperhidrosis: results from a national survey." Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.
[Fujimoto et al., 2015] Fujimoto, T., Ito, A., et al. (2015). "Prevalence and impact on quality of life of hyperhidrosis in Japanese population." Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.
[Cohen & Cohen, 2018] Cohen, J. L., & Cohen, G. (2018). "Hyperhidrosis: A Genetic Predisposition and Treatment Review." National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI).
[Mayo Clinic, 2011] Mayo Clinic Staff. (2011). "Management of Primary Hyperhidrosis: A Review." Mayo Clinic Proceedings.
[Mayo Clinic, 2021] Mayo Clinic Staff. (2021). "Hyperhidrosis Treatment and Management." Mayo Clinic.

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