Individuals with Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia affects approximately 24 million people worldwide, with a prevalence rate of 0.32% globally and 0.45% among adults. The condition is typically diagnosed between the late teens and early thirties, with onset generally occurring earlier in males than in females. It is characterized by positive symptoms like hallucinations and delusions, negative symptoms such as social isolation, and cognitive impairments affecting memory and decision-making.

Individuals with this condition face significant health and socioeconomic challenges, including a reduced life expectancy—averaging 28.5 fewer years in the U.S.—and low employment rates ranging from 4% to 50.4%. Many patients also experience clinical comorbid conditions and increased vulnerability to human rights violations, such as neglect and homelessness, during emergencies.

While antipsychotic medications are the current standard of care, they are only partially effective in alleviating symptoms. Innovations in this space are relevant because cognitive dysfunction and psychological disturbances significantly diminish quality of life and the ability to perform daily activities and professional duties.