Melbourne, Australia – Schizophrenia is a severe mental illness affecting over 20 million people worldwide, characterized by recurrent hallucinations and delusions. It typically emerges in the period from adolescence to early adulthood, impacting almost every area of a person’s life. Current theories suggest that changes in brain development during this critical period may be linked to the development of schizophrenia. The disorder is also thought to be similar to conditions like dyslexia, autism, and ADHD, which usually manifest in childhood.
Recent research introduces the idea that accelerated brain aging could be a potential driver in the development of schizophrenia. This accelerated brain aging can be measured using a simple blood test, specifically looking at the levels of neurofilament light protein (NfL) released from brain neurons when they are damaged or undergo neurodegeneration. Measuring NfL levels can provide insights into the extent of neuronal injury.
Neuronal injury occurs when nerve cells in the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nervous system are damaged, affecting their ability to function properly. While NfL elevation has been linked to various neurological conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease, this study suggests that people with schizophrenia experience an accelerated increase of NfL levels with age compared to healthy individuals, indicating an acceleration of the brain aging process in those with the mental illness.
Individuals with schizophrenia also face lifestyle factors that contribute to accelerated aging of the body, such as exposure to unhealthy habits like smoking, lack of physical activity, and illicit drug use that worsen their condition. The study emphasizes the importance of understanding and potentially treating the distressing disease by exploring factors contributing to accelerated aging in individuals with schizophrenia.
In addition to the physical toll of accelerated aging, individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia also have a significantly shorter life expectancy, mainly due to the earlier onset of common age-related diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disease. These individuals often face additional chronic medical conditions, such as obesity, respiratory issues, chronic pain, and substance-use disorders, further impacting their overall health and well-being.
The study provides valuable insights into the potential mechanisms behind accelerated brain aging in individuals with schizophrenia, shedding light on the complexities of the disorder and the need for comprehensive care and support for those affected. Understanding the role of brain aging in schizophrenia could lead to more targeted interventions and treatments in the future, improving outcomes for individuals living with this challenging mental illness.