The Physical Health and Activity of Patients under Forensic Psychiatric Care: A Scoping Review

Abstract

We completed a scoping review to map current knowledge and identify research gaps relating to the physical health and activity of patients under forensic psychiatric care, and interventions to improve physical health and activity. Twenty-four articles comprising 22 studies were included in the review. There was a high prevalence of overweight and obesity among forensic patients and weight gain often occurred following admission. Interventions showed some health benefits, but there is insufficient evidence. Future research could benefit from adapting approaches evaluated in general mental health services. Future interventions should consider co-design and assess implementation factors and cost-effectiveness.