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Suicides in persons suffering from rheumatoid arthritis
1University of Oulu, Department of Psychiatry, BOX 5000, Finland. markku.timonen@oulu.fi
Rheumatology (Oxford, England)
|February 22, 2003
Summary
Female rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients who died by suicide were more likely to have depression and previous suicide attempts. These findings highlight the need for serious consideration of mental health in RA care.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Psychiatry
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease.
- Suicide risk is a concern in patients with chronic illnesses.
- Understanding the profiles of RA patients who die by suicide is crucial for prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the demographic and psychosocial characteristics of rheumatoid arthritis patients who committed suicide.
- To compare these profiles with control groups of osteoarthritis patients and individuals without arthritis or osteoarthritis.
Main Methods:
- Prospective 13-year follow-up study (1988-2000) in Northern Finland.
- Utilized a database linked to national hospital discharge registers for all suicides.
- Included 1296 male and 289 female suicide victims, with comparisons to osteoarthritis and general population controls.
Main Results:
- Females were over-represented among rheumatoid arthritis suicide victims (52.6%).
- Comorbid depressive disorders preceded suicide in 90% of female RA patients.
- 50% of female RA patients had a history of suicide attempts, compared to 11% of male RA patients; 90% of female RA suicides were violent.
Conclusions:
- Female rheumatoid arthritis patients with a history of suicide attempts and depression require more serious clinical attention.
- Enhanced psychiatric assessment and intervention are necessary for at-risk RA patients.
- Early recognition and management of depression and suicidal ideation in RA are critical.