Schizophrenia research: Indian scene in last decade

Abstract

Schizophrenia is a major psychiatric disorder that not only carries significant morbidity and disability for the sufferer but also a major burden to the society in terms of cost of care. Since its recognition, big strides have been made worldwide in order to understand and treat this disorder. In a developing country such as India, research into the various aspects of this disorder is still not a priority. Despite this scenario, large number of centres across the country have been conducting research in the last four decades. During this time, scope, emphasis and quality of research seem to have undergone a lot of change. In order to examine whether such a change actually exists and the emphasis of research in last decade, a review of research published in Indian Journal of Psychiatry was undertaken. Various studies published on schizophrenia in the last decade (1990-2000) were reviewed. Important landmarks have been highlighted and limitations pointed out.

Keywords: India; Last decade; Research; Schizophrenia.