WHAT IS BIPOLAR DISORDER?

Bipolar disorder, as defined by the DSM-5 TR, is a mental health condition characterized by episodes of both mania and depression. These episodes can range in severity, duration, and frequency, and can significantly impact a person’s daily life and functioning. There are two main types of bipolar disorder:

  • Bipolar I Disorder: This is characterized by at least one episode of mania, which is a distinct period of abnormally elevated, expansive, or irritable mood, along with increased energy or activity levels. The manic episode must last for at least one week, and be severe enough to cause marked impairment in functioning or require hospitalization. Depressive episodes may also occur but are not necessary for a diagnosis of Bipolar I Disorder.
  • Bipolar II Disorder: This is characterized by at least one episode of major depression and at least one hypomanic episode, which is a milder form of mania that does not cause significant impairment in functioning or require hospitalization. Hypomanic episodes typically last for at least four consecutive days.

Bipolar disorder is often associated with several medical comorbidities or co-occurring medical conditions. These comorbidities can have a significant impact on the overall health and well-being of individuals with bipolar disorder, and can sometimes complicate the management of the disorder.

Some of the most common medical comorbidities associated with bipolar disorder include:

  • Cardiovascular disease: Individuals with bipolar disorder have higher rates of cardiovascular disease, including hypertension, coronary artery disease, and stroke. Some medications used to treat bipolar disorder can also increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
  • Obesity and metabolic disorders: Obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes are more common among individuals with bipolar disorder, possibly due to a combination of genetic, lifestyle, and medication-related factors.
  • Thyroid disorders: Individuals with bipolar disorder have higher rates of thyroid disorders, including hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Thyroid dysfunction can exacerbate symptoms of bipolar disorder and can also interfere with treatment.
Individuals with bipolar disorder need to receive comprehensive medical care, including regular screenings for comorbidities and appropriate management of any co-occurring medical conditions. A multidisciplinary approach to treatment, involving both mental health professionals and medical providers, may be necessary to effectively manage both bipolar disorder and any comorbidities. This is where BIPCOM comes in, with a precision medicine approach targeting three objectives: identifying risk factors, conducting clinical studies, and developing a Clinical Support Tool (CST) to improve personalized treatment outcomes. BIPCOM will utilize Nordic biobanks and medical registers, conduct an exploratory clinical study, and develop a CST to improve comorbidity management in BD. With continuous consultations with stakeholders, BIPCOM aims to have a significant impact on the general health of people with BD, leading to lower mortality rates and reduced incidence of severe disabilities. Join us in our mission to improve the lives of those living with BD.     
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