International Health and Psychiatry

Abstract

Objective: To abstract and evaluate data on psychiatric illness and health care in Canada from a recent major World Bank/World Health Organization (WHO) publication. Method: A review of the publication and related material provides a picture of the level of disability produced by neuropsychiatric disorders. Changing patterns of life expectancy in developing countries, and some social factors associated with prevention are extracted. Results: Psychiatric disorders account for 15% of disability and premature death in developed countries. A surprisingly small percentage is accounted for by psychoses, and more than expected by post-traumatic stress disorders. Violence against women is highlighted as a risk factor for psychiatric disorders. Objectives for health care systems — improving outcomes, reaching the disadvantaged and containing costs — are detailed. Conclusions: Although little formal attention is given to psychiatric disorders, there is a wealth of information about the extent of disability produced by neuropsychiatric disorders, and future directions of health care systems.