A survey of the prevalence of diabetes type 2 amongst schizophrenics in a chronic care treatment facility

Abstract

Objective: The determination of the prevalence of type 2 diabetes in a group of patients suffering from schizophrenia who have
been hospitalized in a chronic care facility and to consider the role of factors which may contribute to the increased risk of
developing diabetes.Method: The hospital files of patients suffering from diabetes type 2 were reviewed and assessments were
made in terms of age, gender and body mass index (BMI) duration of stay and co-existing medical conditions. Fasting blood
glucose estimations were done on all schizophrenic patients not receiving treatment for diabetes. Medications of patients were
recorded. A protocol was prepared and approval to conduct the study was obtained from the hospital authorities. Results: Of
494 schizophrenic patients 19 (3.85%) were found to suffer from diabetes. 68% of patients in the diabetic group were found to
be overweight in terms of BMI rating. Only one patient had a medical condition. Proportionately the number of women was
relatively high. Conclusion: The prevalence if diabetes type 2 in a group of chronically ill hospitalised patients with
schizophrenia is significantly lower than in outpatient populations. Residing in a facility long term may serve as a protective
factor. The exclusion of psychological stressors such as isolation, poverty and abandonment may account for the finding.

Keywords: Diabetes type 2; Schizophrenia; Antipsychotic drugs; Risk factors; Hospitalisation

African Journal of Psychiatry Vol. 10 (3) 2007: pp. 143-146