K. Mckenzie et al., Comparison of the outcome and treatment of psychosis in people of Caribbean origin living in the UK and British Whites - Report from the UK700 trial, BR J PSYCHI, 178, 2001, pp. 160-165
Background The comparative outcome of psychosis in British Whites and UK Af
rican-Caribbeans is unclear. Some report that African - Caribbeans have wor
se outcome, whereas others claim better symptomatic outcome and a more beni
gn course.
Aims To a compare the course, outcome and treatment of psychosis in African
Caribbeans and British Whites in a large multi-centre sample.
Method A secondary analysis of 708 patients with research diagnostic criter
ia defined psychosis from a 2-year, randomised controlled trial of case man
agement. Outcome measures (hospitalisation, illness course, self-harm. soci
al disability and treatment received) were adjusted for socio-economic and
clinical differences between groups at baseline using regression analysis.
Results African-Caribbeans were less likely to have a continuous illness an
d to receive treatment with antidepressants or psychotherapy.
Conclusions The outcome of psychosis is complex but differs between UK Afri
can-Caribbeans and British Whites. This may reflect risk factors that incre
ase the rate of psychosis in UK African Caribbeans. Treatment differences r
equire further investigation.