Low Treatment Gap for Schizophrenia in Rural India: A Step Toward Taluk Mental Health Program.

ABSTRACT:

Background

In India, an estimated 3.5 million are affected with schizophrenia, of which more than two-thirds belong to the rural demography. Schizophrenia is one of the most disabling illnesses, causing 10% of the disability adjusted life years, making it a public health concern. We aimed to estimate the treatment gap for schizophrenia in a rural South Indian setting following a community intervention program implemented in two administrative blocks (Thirthahalli and Turuvekere) in the state of Karnataka, India.

Methods

Population-based screening was conducted by trained Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) to identify persons with symptoms of schizophrenia. Research social workers and psychiatrists interviewed screen-positives to confirm the diagnosis. Prevalent cases

SUBMITTER: Kumar CN 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12820768 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature