A cross sectional study of prevalence and correlates of current and past risks in schizophrenia.

Background: The growing burden of chronic often untreated mental illness has increased the importance of risk assessment in people suffering from major mental disorders.

Aims: The present study was undertaken to obtain prevalence of various risks and predictive factors for self-harm, violence and various other risks among randomly recruited schizophrenia subjects (N=270) on the basis of past history of their disorder.

Method: Using a rigorous translation, back translation and acceptability process, a specially constructed semi-structured assessment interview, based on a prior NHS Trust risk assessment interview along with the Diagnostic Interview for Genetic Studies (DIGS), detailed information was obtained for various risks.

Results: Risk of violence (historical) was reported among 65.55%, and risk of self-neglect among 53.33%, risk to others (47.41%), risk of coming to harm (24.07%), self-harm (22.59%), risk from others (11.85%), fire risk (2.96%). Risk of violence (historical) and risk to others was related to 'ever' having emotions related to harm and self-harm, 'current' emotions related to violence and poor compliance to treatment.

Conclusion: Regular risk assessment is essential to assess emotions related to violence and non-adherence to treatment. Assessment of risk helps clinicians predict the risks involved in management and in timely intervention.