Gang violence, poverty and drug abuse fuel schizophrenia relapses (opens original article in a new tab)

Gang violence, poverty, and drug abuse in South Africa are driving schizophrenia relapses by deterring patients from clinic visits and disrupting treatment continuity.

• High crime and gang violence prevent schizophrenia patients from attending clinics
• Poverty, stigma, and medication shortages contribute to treatment non-adherence
• Social determinants like unstable housing and transport issues hinder consistent care
• Healthcare system weaknesses including staff shortages and limited rehabilitation services increase relapse risk