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Excess mortality of schizophrenia. A meta-analysis
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Southampton, Royal South Hants Hospital.
Summary
Schizophrenia significantly increases mortality from suicide and natural causes. While interventions are suggested, reliable methods to track mortality changes are still needed for this serious mental illness.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Schizophrenia is a severe mental disorder with significant public health implications.
- Understanding mortality patterns in schizophrenia is crucial for improving patient outcomes and healthcare strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a structured review and meta-analysis of published literature on schizophrenia mortality.
- To quantify the excess mortality associated with schizophrenia and identify contributing factors.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review.
- Meta-analysis of existing studies on schizophrenia and mortality.
Main Results:
- Schizophrenia is associated with significantly increased mortality from both natural and unnatural causes.
- Suicide accounts for 28% of excess mortality, with accidents contributing 12%.
- Other excess deaths stem from conditions common in the general population, but interpretation is limited by confounding factors.
Conclusions:
- Schizophrenia carries a high risk of mortality, particularly from suicide and moderately from natural causes.
- While potential interventions exist, reliable methods for monitoring mortality changes are currently lacking.