Diet blues: Methodological problems in comparing non-pharmacological weight management programs for patients with schizophrenia

Obesity is an evident problem in patients with schizophrenia because it involves serious risks of health and has major effects on morbidity and mortality. Compared with the general population the prevalence of obesity is significantly increased in people with schizophrenia. Since second-generation antipsychotics have been established, the problem has become even more prevalent. Causes and treatment of obesity are both very complex issues. This article analyzes weight management programs for people with schizophrenia in regard to scientific methodology like intervention criteria, target definition and study design.