Severe mental disorders (SMD) are associated with higher morbidity rates and poorer health outcomes compared to the general population. They are more likely to be overweight, to be affected by cardiovascular diseases, and to have higher risk factors for chronic diseases.

To assess physical health in a sample of patients with SMD and to investigate which mental health-related factors and other psychosocial outcomes could be considered predictors of poor physical health.

Patients referring to the psychiatric outpatients unit of the University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli” were recruited, and were assessed through validated assessment instruments exploring psychopathological status, global functioning and stigma. Physical health was assessed with an ad-hoc anthropometric schedule. A blood sample has been collected to assess levels of cholesterol, blood glucose, triglycerides, and blood insulin.

75 patients have been recruited, with a mean age of 45.63±11.84 years. 30% of the sample had a diagnosis of psychosis, 27% of depression and 43% of bipolar disorder. A higher BMI is predicted by higher number of hospitalizations, a reduced score at MANSA (p<.000), and PSP (p<.05), and higher score at ISMI and BPRS (p<.05). A higher cardiovascular risk is predicted by a reduced MANSA score (p<.000), a higher ISMI score and a poorer adherence to pharmacological treatments (p<.05). Higher ISMI score (p<.0001) and number of hospitalizations (p<.05) are predictors of insulin-resistance.

Our study shows that psychosocial domains negatively influence physical health outcome. It is necessary to disseminate an integrated psychosocial intervention in order to improve patients’ physical health.

No significant relationships.

Vitamin D modulates the biosynthesis of neurotransmitters and neurotrophic factors, thus influencing mood and its alterations. Decreased blood levels of Vitamin D are involved in many psychiatric disorders, in particular, affective disorders. As regards bipolar disorder (BD), an association between vitamin D deficiency and severity of illness has been found.

In this observational study, we assessed calcium homeostasis imbalance in a sample of patients with BD; in particular, we explored whether serum levels of PTH, Vitamin D and calcium influence the clinical presentation of BD and its symptom severity.

All patients were administered with validated assessment instruments to assess psychopathology, affective temperaments and global functioning. Vitamin D and PTH levels were assessed in all patients. An-ad hoc schedule was administered for socio-demographic and clinical characteristics.

The total sample consisted of 199 patients (females: 51%; mean age: 47.1 ± 13.2 years). Levels of serum PTH were directly correlated with the total number of hospitalizations (p< 0.01), and of depressive (p< 0.0001), manic (p< 0.001) and hypomanic episodes (p< 0.01). Serum levels of Vitamin D were positively associated with age at first psychiatric contact and were inversely correlated with the total number of depressive episodes (p< 0.05) and cyclothymic temperament (p< 0.05).

Increased levels of PTH and Vit D correlate with a worse clinical outcome of patients with BD. Our results highlight the importance to routinely assess PTH, Vit D and calcium levels in BD patients. Moreover, vitamin D may represent a valid add-on treatment for these patients.

No significant relationships.