Anthropometric and clinical correlates of physical activity among people with schizophrenia: A review of literature

Background: Schizophrenia is a highly disabling mental disorder often accompanied by chronic physical comorbidities like cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, obesity and diabetes. Lifestyle factors such as smoking and sedentary behaviors increase mortality among patients with schizophrenia. Unfortunately, prior researches have indicated that physical activity levels are generally lower in this population, though the specific determinants of this decline remain inadequately elucidated. Method: A narrative review was conducted to identify factors affecting physical activity in individuals with schizophrenia. A systematic search of PubMed and Google Scholar identified 20 studies, with 8 meeting the inclusion criteria. Most studies were cross-sectional. Physical activity was measured using both subjective and objective tools. Cognitive function and symptom severity were assessed using instruments such as Cognitrax, the Positive Negative Syndrome Scale and the Clinical Global Impression—Severity scale. Results: The average age of participants was around 40 years, with most being male and outpatients. Physical activity was assessed using tools like the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, accelerometers, and the Alpha-Fit Battery. Individuals with schizophrenia showed low physical activity levels, linked to higher body mass index, symptom severity, and poorer cognitive function. The impact of physical activity on quality of life was mixed, with some studies suggesting improvements, while others found no significant effect. Conclusion: Individuals with schizophrenia demonstrate lower physical activity levels, poorer quality of life, and deficits in executive function, memory, and learning. This may be suggestive of the role of physical activity as a potential intervention for improving quality of life, and other clinical outcomes in this population.