Citation

McKenzie K, Samele C, Van Horn E, Tattan T, van Os J, Murray R. Br. J. Psychiatry 2001; 178: 160-165.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2001, Royal College of Psychiatry)

DOI

10.1192/bjp.178.2.160

PMID

11157430

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The comparative outcome of psychosis in British Whites and UK African-Caribbeans is unclear. Some report that African-Caribbeans have worse outcome, whereas others claim better symptomatic outcome and a more benign course.
AIMS: To compare the course, outcome and treatment of psychosis in African-Caribbeans and British Whites in a large multi-centre sample.
METHOD: A secondary analysis of 708 patients with research diagnostic criteria-defined psychosis from a 2-year, randomised controlled trial of case management. Outcome measures (hospitalisation, illness course, self-harm, social disability and treatment received) were adjusted for socio-economic and clinical differences between groups at baseline using regression analysis.
RESULTS: African-Caribbeans were less likely to have a continuous illness and to receive treatment with antidepressant or psychotherapy.
CONCLUSIONS: The outcome of psychosis is complex but differs between UK African-Caribbeans and British Whites. This may reflect risk factors that increase the rate of psychosis in UK African-Caribbeans. Treatment differences require further investigation.

Language: en

Keywords

Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Caribbean Region; Humans; Middle Aged; Prognosis; Psychotic Disorders; Treatment Outcome; United Kingdom; White People