Factors Related to Physical Health Monitoring in Community-Dwelling Patients with Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorder

Mina Kim, Min Jhon, Ju-Yeon Lee, Seon-Young Kim, Jae-Min Kim, Jin-Sang Yoon, Soo-Jin Kim, Sung-Wan Kim
2019 Korean Journal of Schizophrenia Research  
Objectives: To identify factors related to physical health monitoring of patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorder. Methods: A total of 172 patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorder registered in mental health welfare centers and rehabilitation facilities in Gwangju were recruited. Physical health monitoring was defined by two health behaviors; fasting blood tests within recent 2 years in all participants and routine medical check-ups covered by national insurance within recent 5 years
more » ... n participants aged 40 years or older. Demographic and clinical characteristics including overweight, metabolic syndrome and knowledge about physical illness were compared according to physical health monitoring. Results: Prevalence of overweight and metabolic syndrome were 62.8% and 40.1%, respectively. The rates of fasting blood tests and routine medical check-ups were 34.9% and 67.9%, respectively. The rates of fasting blood tests were significantly higher in general hospital and university hospital compared to mental hospital or private clinic. Rates of routine medical check-ups were significantly lower in individuals using daily rehabilitation service and smokers. Knowledge about cancer and chronic illness were significantly better in individuals receiving routine medical check-ups compared with those not receiving it. Conclusion: Education about physical health should be integrated to mental health service in community mental health center.
doi:10.16946/kjsr.2019.22.1.14 fatcat:c5odxpecm5dhfohcf5tfplpclq