The World Health Organization (WHO) has
recognised metabolic syndrome as a global epidemic (Potenza & Mechanick, 2009). Its causes are
not fully understood but its effects can be severe, such as
type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease.
Contributory factors include diet, smoking,
genetics, lack of exercise and excess alcohol. It is a common
comorbidity in people with schizophrenia and, in addition, some
antipsychotic agents are implicated in worsening the risks.
Appropriate intervention by clinicians can
reduce the risk of mortality and morbidity. This module will offer
a framework to help with the diagnosis of metabolic syndrome and
will advise on appropriate treatment paths for patients at
risk.
This module will answer the following questions:
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module