Body mass index (BMI) and obesity in Nigerians with schizophrenia

Abstract

Background

Few Nigerian studies have examined BMI in people with schizophrenia. The aims of the present study were to assess the prevalence and distribution of obesity in Nigerians with schizophrenia and to examine the clinical correlates of BMI and obesity.

Methods

A total of 207 people with schizophrenia met the inclusion criteria and were evaluated for BMI.The Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), Social and Occupational Functioning Assessment Scale (SOFAS) were rated for all participants. Anthropometric measures such as weight and height were taken using a standard protocol.

Results

The prevalence of obesity was 12.6%. The non-obese participants were made up of underweight 24 (11.7%), normal weight 118 (57%) and overweight 38 (18.4%). Compared to non-obese participants, obese participants were older, more educated, more likely to be employed, had higher incomes, lower PANSS score (negative subscale), had fewer female participants, and better social and occupational functioning (p < 0.05). BMI was positively correlated with age and monthly income. In the adjusted model, age, gender and education were independently associated with obesity while only age was associated with BMI.

Conclusion

The present study suggests that unlike in high-income countries, obese patients with schizophrenia in Nigeria have better social and psychological functioning than non-obese patients.

Keywords:

• Obesity
• BMI
• schizophrenia
• Nigeria

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors. The funder did not play any role in the design, collection, screening, interpretation, writing, and submission for publication of this study. The funder holds no responsibility for the contents of this study.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by a grant from the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund National Research Fund).

Notes on contributors

Oluyomi Esan

Oluyomi Esan contributed to the conception and design of the work, to the analysis of the results, critical revision of the article and the final approval of the version to be published.

Arinola Esan

Arinola Esan contributed to the conception of the work, critical revision of the article and the final approval of the version to be published.