Physical Health and Schizophrenia

In comparison to the general population, people with schizophrenia and related disorders have poorer physical health and increased mortality. Whilst it is recognised that serious mental illnesses such as schizophrenia carry a reduced life expectancy, it is often assumed that suicide is the main cause of this disparity. In actuality, suicide accounts for no more than a third of the early mortality associated with schizophrenia: the vast majority is due to cardiovascular factors

Physical Health and Schizophrenia offers a user-friendly guide to the physical health problems associated with schizophrenia and a clear overview of strategies and interventions to tackle these issues. Spanning eight chapters this resource covers the essential topics in a practical and easy-to-read format to suit the needs of busy clinicians. It also includes an appendix designed specifically for patients and carers, with practical tips on how to be actively involved in monitoring and managing physical health problems.

Part of the Oxford Psychiatry Library series, Physical Health and Schizophrenia offers readers a fully up-to-date and valuable insight into this complex issue. With helpful key points at the start of each chapter and a clear layout, this is an essential resource for busy clinicians and researchers in any mental health field as well as those working in primary care.

David J. Castle, Professor and Chair of Psychiatry, St Vincent's Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Australia,Peter F. Buckley, Dean, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, USA,Fiona P. Gaughran, Lead Consultant in the National Psychosis Service and R&D Director, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust and Reader in Psychopharmacology and Physical Health at the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN), London, UK.