Summary
A major contributor is widespread treatment with second-generation (atypical) antipsychotics, which are associated (to varying degrees) with substantial weight gain, dyslipidemia, and increased risk for type 2 diabetes.MiS However, recent evidence indicates that schizophrenia and bipolar disorder arc risk factors independent of antipsychotic use, and lifestyle factors associated with weight gain and diabetes, such as poor diet and physical inactivity, are also common in this group, ''he costs of this epidemic are high: poor health, early mortality, reduced quality of life, and related decreased opportunity for recovery. Recognizing the need tor a comprehensive Intervention strategy, Thresholds'Executive Committee, Board of Directors, and the UIC advanced practice nurses developed a formal diabetes prevention, education, and management program, including a specialized residential treatment facility for individuals with SMI and diabetes-Paxton House. Since its inception in August 2003, Paxton House has offered a comprehensive service system that promotes significant lifestyle changes through increased medical attention (using the IHCs), intensive education, nutrition consultation, exercise, therapy and psychosocial rehabilitation, smoking cessation and, in general, special coordinated care between physical and mental health, as well as residential service providers.
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Extract
Integrated Care at Paxton House
Type 2 diabetes is a serious, debilitating disease disproportionately affecting persons with severe mental illness (SMI). Whereas 4% of the U.S. population has type 2 diabetes, prevalence in individuals with SMl Is almost twice as high1 and reaches a staggering 16 to 25% in individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia.2
Because of the strong association between diabetes and cardiovascular disease, the number-one cause of early mortality in individuals with SMI,1,3 diabetes is a Healthcare issue of epidemic proportions in this population. The increased prevalence is multiply determined by family history, lifestyle, and iatrogenic causes.A major contribu...See the full content of this document
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