Obsessive–compulsive symptoms in schizophrenia: prevalence and associated factors in a Nigerian population

Abstract

Objectives: The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of obsessive–compulsive symptoms (OCS) among subjects with schizophrenia and also to determine their associated factors.Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 232 patients with schizophrenia were recruited from a teaching hospital in Nigeria. Socio-demographic questionnaire, Obsessive–Compulsive Inventory, Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale and Suicidality module of the MINI International Neuropsychiatric Inventory were administered.Results: The prevalence of OCS was 54.3% among patients with schizophrenia, and washing symptom was the most common (51.7%). Patients with schizophrenia that had OCS had more severe psychopathologies and higher levels of suicidality. OCS among patients with schizophrenia were also associated with the use of second-generation antipsychotic medications.Conclusions: OCS are common in schizophrenia. Hence, there is a need for routine screening of patients with schizophrenia for OCS and then, manage them appropriately.