MORTALITY AND CAUSES OF DEATH IN 1ST ADMITTED SCHIZOPHRENIC-PATIENTS

Although many studies have shown an increased mortality in schizophren ic patients, the literature provides little information about mortalit y from specific causes in relation to age, gender, and duration of ill ness. This study examined mortality and causes of death in a total nat ional sample of 9156 first admitted schizophrenic patients. Suicide ac counted for 50% of deaths in men and 35% of deaths in women. Suicide r isk was particularly increased during the first year of follow-up. Dea th from natural causes, with the exception of cancer and cerebrovascul ar diseases, was increased. Suicide risk during the first year of foll ow-up increased by 56%, with a 50% reduction on psychiatric in-patient facilities. The study confirms that mortality in schizophrenia is sti ll markedly elevated, and the finding of an increasing suicide risk ma y be an indicator of some adverse effects of deinstitutionalisation.