Further evidence to support weight loss and lifestyle interventions for people taking antipsychotic medications

Park, Tanya;Workun, Bernadette

Abstract

Increasing weight is the leading risk factor for many life-shortening illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, stroke and diabetes.1 Individuals with serious mental illness (SMI) such as schizophrenia are at increased risk of medical comorbidities, including metabolic syndrome, leading to an increased risk for cardiovascular disease and diabetes. As a result, life expectancy is shorter than those in the general population.2 The elevated cardiometabolic risks can be due to inadequate nutrition, limited access to medical care, sedentary lifestyle, smoking and treatments such as prescription of antipsychotic medications. Healthy lifestyle interventions developed specifically for people with mental illness are essential in the treatment and prevention of reduction of weight gain and risk of diabetes.

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Evidence Based Mental Health

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1362-0347

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BMJ Group

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DOI

10.1136/eb-2015-102068