Care and management of cardiovascular risk factors among individuals with schizophrenia and type 2 diabetes who smoke

Objective: We sought to determine whether individuals with schizophrenia and type 2 diabetes who smoke were being monitored and treated for modifiable risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease. Methods: Cross-sectional analysis of 100 patients with schizophrenia and 99 without serious mental illness (SMI), with a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. Results: Individuals with schizophrenia were nearly twice as likely to be smokers compared to those without SMI (62% vs. 34%). Among smokers, those with schizophrenia were significantly less likely to receive blood pressure exams, lipid profiles or treatment with ACE inhibitors or statins compared to those without SMI. Both groups were equally likely to receive smoking cessation counseling. Conclusions: Smokers with type 2 diabetes and schizophrenia are significantly less likely to receive services and treatments known to improve cardiovascular outcomes. Efforts to increase awareness and improve delivery of services to this vulnerable group of patients are warranted.