Health habits of patients with schizophrenia

Background The aim of the study was to analyze the physical activity, dietary, drinking, and smoking habits of schizophrenia patients (SP). Methods Data from 194 schizophrenia outpatients collected using sections of the German National Health Interview and Examination Survey were compared with data from the German general population (GP). In addition to univariate data analyses, a multivariate regression analysis was performed. Results Schizophrenia patients have a supper snack more frequently, consume instant meals and calorie-reduced food more frequently, and eat healthy groceries more rarely. Though they drink less alcohol, a greater proportion currently smokes, smoking on average 4 cigarettes more per day. On workdays they spend less time with strenuous activities, and in leisure time a greater proportion is involved in no sports. Regression analysis revealed that schizophrenia by itself or in interaction with demographic variables influences physical activity as well as alcohol, nicotine, and healthy grocery consumption. Health habits were particularly disadvantageously affected by schizophrenia in connection with unemployment. Conclusions Schizophrenia patients are an appropriate target group for public health interventions. They need information about a healthy diet and motivation to prepare their own meals, to quit smoking, and to exercise.