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Managing weight important for long term health of people living with schizophrenia

Thursday April 19, 2007

Psychiatrists today called for closer monitoring of physical health problems in people with schizophrenia due to their higher rates of obesity and diabetes than the general population.1

Professor David Castle, Chair of Psychiatry, St Vincent’s Hospital, The University of Melbourne said that excessive weight gain can not only impact patients’ self esteem but potentially their long-term health, placing them at increased risk of chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease.1

“The rate of obesity in people with schizophrenia is significantly higher than the general population1 and patients are telling us that as their body mass goes up, their quality of life decreases,” said Professor Castle.

It has been estimated that almost one in five (19%) people with psychosis develop diabetes, compared with 7.5% of the general population.1 In addition cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in people with schizophrenia.2

“We see some young people just ‘blow up’ with rapid weight gain and it is just awful,” Professor Castle said. “Many newly diagnosed patients are in their teens or 20s and this can be a critical time for their self esteem and body image”.

“Whilst treatment has improved greatly over the years it is important to be aware of the potential risks of overweight, diabetes and cardiovascular disease so that this can be built into the person’s treatment program.”

Around 1 in 100 people will develop schizophrenia during their lifetime, and this figure is the same all over the world. Around 2000 people are newly diagnosed annually in Australia. Schizophrenia tends to be slightly more prevalent in males than females.3

Professor McGorry, Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne and Director, ORYGEN Research Centre and ORYGEN Youth Health, Melbourne said weight gain in younger people in the early stages of psychosis and treatment are serious issues and should be the focus of clinical care. Both can result in poor compliance with treatment as patients can be very concerned about their physical appearance.

“It is important that the potential for increased weight and metabolic risks are discussed with the young person and a lifestyle plan put in place to help prevent this,” said Professor McGorry.

Diet and exercise programs and regular metabolic and physical monitoring are important for people on anti psychotic medications, especially those at high risk of obesity. Some medications have a better metabolic profile than others.

Patients are advised to continue with any current prescribed treatments, as ceasing to take medication could have serious consequences for their health. If a patient has any questions, or would like further information on treatment options, they should visit their doctor.

All medications carry a risk of side effects. Patients are advised to speak to their doctor before taking any medication.

For more information about schizophrenia please call the SANE helpline on: 1800 18 SANE (7263) or visit www.sane.org

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