Even if all age groups can be affected, agoraphobia usually appears in adulthood, most often before the age of 35. A study¹ suggested that the first seizure appeared on average at age 27. An earlier onset does not mean, which is the case in other psychiatric illnesses, that the symptoms will be more severe. Women are more affected than men.

30 to 50% of people with panic disorder also suffer from agoraphobia.

Risk factors. Being of an anxious nature or having lived through tragic events increases the risk of one day suffering from agoraphobia. Just like having a parent who suffers from this condition.