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LETTERS: Philipp Andreas Conradi Prevention of diabetes: Ethical consideration BMJ 2006; 333: 918-c [Full text]

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Diabetes, antipsychotics and schizophrenia

olusola Olaloko   (30 October 2006)

Diabetes, antipsychotics and schizophrenia 30 October 2006
olusola Olaloko, Staff Grade Psychiatrist The Pendered Centre, Northampton Send response to journal: Re: Diabetes, antipsychotics and schizophrenia	How do we prevent diabetes in patients with schizophrenia who are on antipsychotics. The second generation antipsychotic are increasingly linked with an elevated risk of weight gain, hyperglycaemia and lipid abnormality. The use of antipsychotics therefore not only increses the risk of diabetes but also metabolic syndrome, currently still a controverial topic. Doctors are more aware of the increasing risk of type 2 diabetes in the general population but not the association with disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar affective disorder. Apart from promoting healthier behaviour we need to be aware of the indicators of the risk and promote awareness amongst other professionals of the multidisciplinary team. Maybe we can contribute to preventing the epidemic of diabetes especially in schizophrenics who are sometimes the least motivated due to lifestyle choices as well as lack of finances and exercise. Some drug companies are making initiatives and assist in setting up weight clinics and mental health professionals are becoming more aware of the risk of diabetes in this group of patients. Competing interests: None declared