Relationship between eating attitudes, depression, and insight in schizophrenic patients with and without type 2 diabetes mellitus: a comparative study in Guangdong, China.

BACKGROUND

Schizophrenia, a severe mental disorder, is often complicated by Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), which can further impact patients' psychological health. This study investigated the differences in eating attitudes, depression, and insight between schizophrenic patients with and without comorbid T2DM and explored the correlations among these factors to provide empirical support for clinical interventions.

METHODS

This case-control study was conducted in Guangdong Province, China. From December 2022 to May 2023, a total of 300 hospitalized patients with schizophrenia (92 with comorbid T2DM and 208 without T2DM) were recruited. Data were collected using the Personal Information Form, Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26), Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD), and Insight and Treatment Attitudes Questionnaire (ITAQ). Statistical analyses, including t-tests, ANOVA, and multiple linear regression, were performed to examine differences and predictive factors of eating attitudes among patients. This study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (approval number: 2020028), and written informed consent was obtained from all participants.

RESULTS

Patients with schizophrenia and comorbid T2DM exhibited significantly higher risks of eating disorders (EAT-26: 12.54 ± 9.77 vs. 9.07 ± 7.90, =0.003), more severe depression (HAMD: 14.71 ± 7.36 vs. 11.80 ± 6.04, =0.001), and poorer insight (ITAQ: 10.46 ± 6.01 vs. 12.16 ± 6.09, =0.025) compared to those without T2DM. Regression analysis revealed that gender, weekly exercise frequency, depression, and insight were significant predictors of eating attitudes among patients with T2DM. For patients without T2DM, weekly exercise frequency, smoking status, and insight were significant predictors.

CONCLUSION

Schizophrenic patients with comorbid T2DM are facing increasing risks related to eating attitudes, depression, and insight which highlight the need for targeted interventions. Regular psychological assessment and tailored support strategies might improve their mental health and quality of life. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to clarify causal relationships and develop more effective interventions.