A J Oldehinkel1, R Giel. 1. Department of Social Psychiatry, University Hospital Groningen, The Netherlands.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Several studies have suggested a declining first-admission rate for schizophrenia. This study examines the care-based incidence of schizophrenia in a Dutch register area. METHOD: Data from Groningen psychiatric case register were used to compare first-admission rates for schizophrenia over 1976-90 with those of other functional psychoses, and to consider various potential biases. RESULTS: Diagnostic habits probably affected time trends in incidence rates. Using a broader definition of schizophrenia, no evidence was found for a decrease in the incidence of schizophrenia. Although first admissions to intramural services showed a (non-significant) decrease, this effect seemed to be neutralised when all mental health services were taken into account. CONCLUSIONS: Care-based studies of time trends in psychiatric disorders should embrace all mental health services. Furthermore, unless a diagnostic classification system with univocal criteria is used, bias caused by changing diagnostic habits cannot be ruled out.
BACKGROUND: Several studies have suggested a declining first-admission rate for schizophrenia. This study examines the care-based incidence of schizophrenia in a Dutch register area. METHOD: Data from Groningen psychiatric case register were used to compare first-admission rates for schizophrenia over 1976-90 with those of other functional psychoses, and to consider various potential biases. RESULTS: Diagnostic habits probably affected time trends in incidence rates. Using a broader definition of schizophrenia, no evidence was found for a decrease in the incidence of schizophrenia. Although first admissions to intramural services showed a (non-significant) decrease, this effect seemed to be neutralised when all mental health services were taken into account. CONCLUSIONS: Care-based studies of time trends in psychiatric disorders should embrace all mental health services. Furthermore, unless a diagnostic classification system with univocal criteria is used, bias caused by changing diagnostic habits cannot be ruled out.
Authors: Raimo K R Salokangas; Mika Helminen; Anna-Maija Koivisto; Helena Rantanen; Hannu Oja; Sami Pirkola; Kristian Wahlbeck; Matti Joukamaa Journal: Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol Date: 2010-03-20 Impact factor: 4.328
Authors: Arjen L Sutterland; Jeanne Dieleman; Jitschak G Storosum; Bettie A C Voordouw; Jojanneke Kroon; Joris Veldhuis; Damiaan A J P Denys; Lieuwe de Haan; Miriam C J M Sturkenboom Journal: Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol Date: 2013-01-23 Impact factor: 4.328