Abstract

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-morbidcardiovascular 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: Across sectional survey of schizophrenics attending out-patient clinics in a Nigerian hospital was undertaken,
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.