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Epidemiology and Risk Factors Influencing Schizophrenia
Book chapter

Epidemiology and Risk Factors Influencing Schizophrenia

Eric A. Epping and Donald W. Black
Schizophrenia and Psychotic Spectrum Disorders, pp.41-54
Primer On, Oxford University Press
04/01/2016
DOI: 10.1093/med/9780199378067.003.0003

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Abstract

Schizophrenia affects millions worldwide. This chapter discusses research indicating differences in the prevalence of schizophrenia depending on several variables including location, age, and gender. The heterogeneity of symptoms and changing diagnostic criteria over time for schizophrenia adds additional challenges in diagnosis and evaluation of its epidemiology. Variables that may contribute to the risk of developing schizophrenia are reviewed, including geography, ethnicity, immigration, parental age, and birth seasonality. Factors influencing disease outcome, morbidity, mortality and societal consequences of schizophrenia, such as effects on marriage, fertility, and criminality, are also presented. This information is critical to understanding schizophrenia and to advance our knowledge of its etiology and treatment.

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