<h1><strong>Abstract</strong></h1>
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<p>This research assessed the prevalence and socio-demographic characteristics related to anxiety disorder in Aracaju (Sergipe, Brazil). We used a socio-demographic questionnaire and the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). Six hundred ninety people were interviewed in their households. Females were 55.9% and the age varied from 18 to 65 years old. We used the BAI criteria of at least mild level and found 28.4% positive diagnostic of anxiety disorder. Results of logistic analysis showed that the main risk factors to anxiety disorder in Aracaju were: self-perception of being sick, having some chronic illness, smoking, ‘parda’ skin color, and having studied no more than high school.</p>
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<h1><strong>Keywords:</strong> anxiety disorder; population study; Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI); prevalence.</h1>