An update on the epidemiology of schizophrenia.

This report summarizes research in epidemiology and related areas which addresses as yet unresolved issues in schizophrenia. These include the nature of the disorder, environmental and psychosocial risk factors and differences in the course of illness. Unravelling the complexities of etiology, course and appropriate treatment calls for an integration of biological and psychosocial paradigms. The review also illustrates that a broad-based view can generate fruitful hypotheses as well as important alternative explanations for research findings.