What are the main causes of death in people with serious mental illnesses?

The main causes of death in people with serious mental illnesses are primarily linked to cardiovascular disease, cancer, and pulmonary disease. Individuals with serious mental health conditions often experience a range of factors that contribute to these health issues, including lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of physical activity, and high rates of smoking. Additionally, these individuals may have limited access to healthcare, leading to delayed or inadequate treatment for conditions that can lead to mortality.

Cardiovascular disease, for instance, is significantly more prevalent in patients with serious mental illnesses, often due to the medications used to treat these conditions that can have metabolic side effects. Cancer rates can be higher due to lifestyle factors and a potential disparity in medical screening. Pulmonary disease can arise from smoking, which is more common in this population.

In contrast, while accidents, drug overdoses, and suicide also represent significant risks for individuals with mental illness, they typically account for a different category of mortality, often related to the direct consequences of the mental illness itself. Infectious diseases, skin disorders, and neurological diseases, while relevant to various populations, are not the primary causes of death for those with serious mental illnesses. This highlights the importance of addressing broader health issues and enhancing medical care access for this vulnerable group to