Schizophrenia in Greenland.
An increased focus on socio-psychological rehabilitation and monitoring and control of cardiovascular risk factors is warranted and the prevalence of schizophrenia in Nuuk and the rest of Greenland is estimated.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The present prevalence of schizophrenia in Greenland is unknown. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of schizophrenia in Nuuk and the rest of Greenland. METHODS The study was designed as an observational, cross-sectional study based on statistical extractions and review of medical records for psychiatric patients in Greenland, aiming to determine the prevalence of schizophrenia. RESULTS The prevalence of schizophrenia was estimated to 1.0% in Nuuk and 0.7% in the rest of Greenland. More males than females were affected (male/female ratio 2.5). Poor socio-economic conditions were revealed for the majority of patients. Cardiovascular risk factors were monitored suboptimally. CONCLUSIONS An increased focus on socio-psychological rehabilitation and monitoring and control of cardiovascular risk factors is warranted. FUNDING The study was funded by a grant from The Greenlandic Research Council (Sundhedspuljen). TRIAL REGISTRATION not relevant.