The proportion of "true" cases of schizophrenia is high in the Swedish National Inpatient Register. In addition, the results did not support large differences between clinics or regions although a larger sample size would be needed to test this formally. In comparison with earlier studies from the Nordic countries the validity seems to be quite stable over time, between different ages at onset and between Nordic countries. Thus, the registers are well suited to be used in schizophrenia research.

It is possible to successfully treat FEP patients with fewer in-patient days and less neuroleptic medication than is usually recommended, when combined with intensive psychosocial treatment and support.

The study confirms the feasibility, clinically and economically, with a large scale application of "need-specific treatments" for first episode psychotic patients.

This study supports the theory of an association between obstetric complications and schizophrenia. Although preeclampsia was the strongest individual risk factor, there was evidence of increased risk associated with all 3 etiologic mechanisms.

Neurocognitive performance at admission appears to predict various aspects of functional outcome in FEP.