PAPER OF THE WEEK: The Links Between Metabolic Syndrome and Mental Illness

Welcome to Paper of the Week, which looks back at research and commentary from the past 25 years in The American Journal of Managed Care^®, and why they matter today.

This week’s paper, “Metabolic Syndrome and Mental Illness,” is one of many appearing in the journal over the years that has addressed the challenges of complex patients—those with multiple comorbidities, which can include both a combination of medical and behavioral health needs.

The 2007 paper examined the elevated risks for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes for patients who have schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.

Author John W. Newcomer reported that these patients have a life span 25 to 30 years shorter due to their combination of risk factors.

For the paper, visit ajmc.com.

For our podcast about complex patients, visit ajmc.com.