Background: The lifetime risk of schizophrenia is about one in 100. It is an illness associated with substantial disability and increased risk of physical illness.
Objective: This article updates general practitioners on the physical, psychological and social management of patients with schizophrenia.
Discussion: General practitioners have a key role in managing patients with schizophrenia, including early detection of prodromal symptoms, monitoring and preventing relapses, and providing high quality primary and secondary prevention for common physical problems. Effective care requires a thorough understanding of local specialist services, pharmacotherapies, and familiarity with psychosocial interventions that will genuinely benefit patients.