A new study dedicated to lessening the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in people with severe mental illness (SMI) has received a £2m investment from NIHR.

The research team includes members who have personally used mental health services. This ensures their unique insights shape the research direction. The study, known as PEGASUS, is developing a group clinic to reduce CVD for people with SMI. The initial pilot of group clinics will be for 10 people in each of four mental health Trusts. It will include a workstream dedicated to working with communities to address health inequalities.

Standard health lifestyle advice is effective in the general population. Yet, it often falls short in helping those with SMI. Also, side effects of psychiatric medication can worsen physical health complications. People from Black and ethnic minority communities can be at increased risk of both CVD and SMI.

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