Psychiatria pre prax 1/2008

RISK FACTORS CONCERNING THE LIFESTYLE OF PATIENS SUFFERING FROM SCHIZOPHRENIA

People with schizophrenia die prematurely. Their illness, its treatment and their lifestyle all contribute to excess morbidity and mortality. Improper life habits (e. g. poor diet, low rates of physical activity and increased smoking cigarettes) predispose them to poor physical health and comorbid medical diseases. In addition, weight gain and obesity are a consequence of most antipsychotics. Excessive body weight increases the risk morbidity and mortality, and is the biggest risk factor for onset the type II. diabetes mellitus. Much of the excess mortality of schizophrenia is preventable though lifestyle and risk factor modification and the treatment of common diseases.

Keywords: schizophrenia, lifestyle, risk factors, antipsychotics, obesity, smoking