Mortality in people with schizophrenia in rural China

Abstract

BackgroundLong-term mortality and the risk factors for premature death among patients with schizophrenia living in rural communities are unknown.AimsTo explore the 10-year mortality and its risk factors among patients with schizophrenia.MethodWe used data from a 10-year prospective follow-up study (1994–2004) of mortality among people with schizophrenia, and death registration data for Xinjin County, Chengdu, China.ResultsThe mortality rate was 2228 per 100 000 person-years during follow-up. Both all-cause mortality and suicide rates were significantly greater in male than in female patients. Age at illness onset (>45 years), duration of illness (⩾10 years), age greater than 50 years, physical illness, inability to work, male gender, and never having received treatment were identified as independent predictors of increased mortality.ConclusionsHigher mortality rates in male patients may contribute to the higher prevalence of schizophrenia in women compared with men in China. The findings of risk factors for mortality should be taken into account when developing interventions to improve outcomes among people with schizophrenia.