One-year incidence of diabetes mellitus in Thai schizophrenic patients

Objective: The association between schizophrenia and diabetes mellitus (DM) has been recognized, but its underlying reasons are unclear and likely to be multifactorial. This prospective study aimed to assess a one-year incidence rate and risk factors of DM in Thai schizophrenic patients. Method: We screened all DSM-IV schizophrenic patients who visited the psychiatric clinic between February 2003 and May 2004. A fasting plasma glucose level (FPGL) of 126 mg/dL or more was applied for a diagnosis of DM. Each subject was assessed at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months. Results: During the one-year follow-up period, four of 43 subjects (9.3%) developed DM (FPGL >= 126 mg/dL). One and three participants developed DM at 6 and 12 months, respectively. Conclusion: Thai schizophrenic patients may develop DM rapidly. Long duration of schizophrenia and long-term antipsychotic treatment may play a role in increasing risk for DM in this population.