Somatic symptoms study: physical health of patients with mental illness

Background

Not only are those diagnosed with a mental disorder at greater risk of suffering from physical illness, but such health problems will often have extensive impact upon the psychological well-being and quality of life of these individuals. The principle objective of this study was to investigate whether psychiatric patients led a less healthy lifestyle, and experienced poorer physical health than the general population.

Materials and methods

The study sample was obtained from the Western Australian community and consisted of 55 psychiatric patients, and a matched control group comprised of 1210 representatives of the general population. A comparative analysis of data relating to a selection of lifestyle practices and physical measurements of the individuals from either group was performed.

Results

The psychiatric patients generally consumed a higher amount of saturated fat, exercised less, had a greater intake of cigarettes and alcohol, and had a larger body mass index and waist-to-hip ratio. Compared to the general population therefore, the psychiatric patients were more often associated with behaviours that carry high health risks.