A Study of Hypertension and Related Biophysical and Health-related Lifestyle Behaviors in Patients Suffering from Schizophrenia.

Background: Schizophrenia is a life-shortening disease. The standardized mortality ratio has been higher than that of the general population, and it has doubled what it was 3-4 decades ago. This rise is mostly attributed to the increased cardiovascular risk associated with high second-generation antipsychotic (SGA) use. Evidence from the first-generation antipsychotic (FGA) era shows a lower prevalence of hypertension (HTN) but data regarding SGAs is scarce.

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to assess the prevalence of HTN and related factors using standardized methodology in patients with schizophrenia on treatment with SGAs.

Methods: A cross-sectional study through convenient sampling was done. Blood pressure, anthropometry, physical activity, and health-related lifestyle factors were assessed using the standard World Health Organization (WHO) methodology of cardiovascular survey methods and the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) version 2. The prevalence of HTN, obesity, inadequate physical activity, and other demographic and clinical correlates like antipsychotic use, duration of illness, and family history of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) were studied.

Results: The prevalence of HTN is 20.50%, and it increases with age. SGAs with the use of a single agent are the most common. In total, 45.50% of persons with schizophrenia have a positive family history of a NCD; 22.00% and 07.50% are current tobacco and alcohol users, respectively; and 70% have abdominal obesity, and 54% have generalized obesity. Waist circumference, obesity, and family history of NCDs are significant correlates of HTN. A family history of NCDs is the most significant predictor.

Conclusion: The prevalence of HTN is lower than that of the general population despite the high prevalence of SGA use, obesity, and inadequate physical activity.