4 research outputs found
A survey of the prevalence of diabetes type 2 amongst schizophrenics in a chronic care treatment facility
Objective: The determination of the prevalence of type 2 diabetes in a group of patients suffering from schizophrenia who have
been hospitalized in a chronic care facility and to consider the role of factors which may contribute to the increased risk of
developing diabetes.Method: The hospital files of patients suffering from diabetes type 2 were reviewed and assessments were
made in terms of age, gender and body mass index (BMI) duration of stay and co-existing medical conditions. Fasting blood
glucose estimations were done on all schizophrenic patients not receiving treatment for diabetes. Medications of patients were
recorded. A protocol was prepared and approval to conduct the study was obtained from the hospital authorities. Results: Of
494 schizophrenic patients 19 (3.85%) were found to suffer from diabetes. 68% of patients in the diabetic group were found to
be overweight in terms of BMI rating. Only one patient had a medical condition. Proportionately the number of women was
relatively high. Conclusion: The prevalence if diabetes type 2 in a group of chronically ill hospitalised patients with
schizophrenia is significantly lower than in outpatient populations. Residing in a facility long term may serve as a protective
factor. The exclusion of psychological stressors such as isolation, poverty and abandonment may account for the finding. Keywords: Diabetes type 2; Schizophrenia; Antipsychotic drugs; Risk factors; Hospitalisation African Journal of Psychiatry Vol. 10 (3) 2007: pp. 143-14
Secondary polycythaemia with elevated carbon monoxide levels due to hookah pipe smoking: A public health concern.
Hookah pipe (HP) smoking is perceived as a harmless activity, enjoyed by young adults and high school-going children. Awareness of the health impact of recreational habits, and their intersection with new social norms in the COVID-era, requires critical review. We describe a case series of young HP smokers presenting with secondary polycythaemia with significant clinical sequelae necessitating extensive work-up. HP smoking may lead to acute and chronic carbon monoxide intoxication, with resultant secondary polycythaemia and complications including provoked thrombosis