[The significance of the early detection and intervention for schizophrenia]

Early detection of, and intervention for, schizophrenia improve the social and functional outcome of the schizophrenia patient. A shorter duration of untreated psychosis (DUP) is an indication of a good prognosis for schizophrenia, but the DUP in Japan is comparatively long. There are some reports which have suggested shortening the DUP, for example, the Buckingham project and TIPS. They show early intervention services reduce the rate of onset of schizophrenia, and improve functions of schizophrenia patients. Intervention for patients with At Risk Mental State (ARMS) may stop or delay the onset of schizophrenia. Furthermore, intensive cares for patients in the critical period can also induce better clinical and functional outcomes. A shorter DUP and an intensive and comprehensive approach within the critical period are eagerly awaited in Japan.