Insulin resistance and metabolic disturbances are common in patients with schizophrenia. A recent study showed that MetS, hypertension, and diabetes were associated with poorer performance in specific cognitive domains, including attention/vigilance, reasoning and problem-solving, speed of processing, verbal learning, and visual learning.
Insulin resistance and metabolic disturbances in schizophrenia have also been linked to inflammation, which might be related both to the psychopathology of schizophrenia and to metabolic disturbances seen in patients with schizophrenia. Indeed, recent evidence shows that compared with controls, levels of four cytokines were significantly increased in acutely ill patients with schizophrenia: interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor alpha, soluble IL-2 receptor, and IL-1 receptor antagonist. These levels were also elevated in patients with bipolar mania and major depressive disorder. In addition, in patients with schizophrenia, lack of exercise and poor diet can contribute to both hypertension and diabetes.
Learn more about complications of schizophrenia.
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Cite this: Stephen Soreff. Fast Five Quiz: Schizophrenia Comorbidities - Medscape - Apr 22, 2021.
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