Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome in Schizophrenics on Antipsychotics in a Nigerian Psychiatric Hospital

Background: The metabolic syndrome has been implicated in the increasing incidence of cardiovascular morbidity. The syndrome is commoner among patients with schizophrenia compared to the general population. Schizophrenia is a chronic condition in which morbidity and mortality may arise due to co-morbid cardiovascular disorders. The prevalence of the metabolic syndrome has not been studied in psychiatric patient populations in Nigeria. Aim: To determine the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome among outpatients with schizophrenia. Methods: A cross sectional survey of schizophrenics attending out-patient clinics in a Nigerian hospital was undertaken. Anthropometric measures, clinical variables and lifestyle patterns of respondents were assessed. Results: About 19% met the criteria for the metabolic syndrome. About half had a BMI in the overweight category. Poor lifestyle habits were observed, comprising lack of exercise and poor knowledge on weight reduction techniques. Conclusion: Schizophrenic patients in Nigeria are at risk for cardiovascular morbidity and warrants better attention from psychiatrists.