First-contact incidence rates of schizophrenia in Trinidad and one-year follow-up

Bhugra, D., Hilwig, M., Hossein, B., Marceau, H., Neehall, J., Leff, J., Mallett, R. and Der, G. (1996) First-contact incidence rates of schizophrenia in Trinidad and one-year follow-up. British Journal of Psychiatry, 169(5), pp. 587-592.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Incidence rates of schizophrenia among UK African-Caribbeans have been reported as high. Various explanations including selective migration and genetic vulnerability have been proposed. METHOD: In one calendar year, all new cases of psychosis presenting to various psychiatric services in two clearly defined geographical catchment areas in Trinidad-one in the rural south and the other an urban area-were studied. Standardised diagnostic instruments were applied and information collected using WHO screening and measurement instruments. RESULTS: A total of 56 cases were collected, giving an incidence rate of 2.2/1000 of broad schizophrenia with a rate of 1.6 for S+ schizophrenia. CONCLUSION: These rates are similar to those from the WHO study in Honolulu and Aarhus, and much lower than the rates for African-Caribbeans in London. The cases were followed up for one year and the poor outcome rate for schizophrenia was 19%. The findings are discussed in a cross-cultural context and suggestions for future research made.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Der, Mr Geoffrey
• Authors: Bhugra, D., Hilwig, M., Hossein, B., Marceau, H., Neehall, J., Leff, J., Mallett, R., and Der, G.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > MRC/CSO SPHSU
• Journal Name: British Journal of Psychiatry
• ISSN: 0007-1250
• ISSN (Online): 1472-1465