Risk factors for physical health in people with severe mental illness in Mexico

Abstract

This is a descriptive study of a convenience sample of people with severe mental illness whose aim was to identify physical risk factors and support needs for health care and safety. The main risk factors identified in this study are overweight and obesity in people with severe mental illness, this coupled with the lack of identification of primary caregivers regarding the need for support in promoting healthy lifestyles can increase vulnerability. The study population is a population twice as vulnerable to physical risk factors associated with lifestyles. This vulnerability is due to both the typical evolution of mental illness as poor integration of this group to the preventive health services. Knowledge of these factors contributes to the design of policies and programs that promote comprehensive care of this group.