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The relationship between multimorbidity and suicidal ideation: A meta-analysis.
Feiyang Xiong1, Li Wang2, Lianlian Shen2
1School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Health Economics and Policy Research, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China.
Individuals with multimorbidity, the presence of two or more medical conditions, face a significantly higher risk of suicidal ideation (SI). This meta-analysis confirms multimorbidity as a key risk factor for SI, especially in cases of physical and mental multimorbidity.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Mental Health Research
Background:
- Multimorbidity, defined as the coexistence of two or more chronic conditions, is increasingly recognized as a significant public health challenge.
- The interplay between physical and mental health conditions in multimorbidity requires further investigation regarding its impact on mental health outcomes.
- Suicidal ideation (SI) is a critical public health concern, and understanding its risk factors is paramount for effective prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a meta-analysis assessing the relationship between multimorbidity and suicidal ideation (SI).
- To evaluate the pooled association between having multiple physical, mental, or combined conditions and the risk of SI.
- To identify specific multimorbidity profiles associated with a higher risk of suicidal ideation.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library for studies published up to March 2020.
- Included studies were assessed for quality using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality criteria.
- Meta-analysis techniques, including subgroup and sensitivity analyses, were employed to determine the pooled odd ratio (OR) for the association between multimorbidity and SI, with publication bias assessed.
Main Results:
- Nineteen studies were included in the meta-analysis, encompassing a diverse range of populations and study designs.
- The pooled odd ratio (OR) indicated a significant association between multimorbidity and suicidal ideation, with OR = 2.90 (95% CI 2.29-3.67, P < .001).
- Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the findings, and no significant publication bias was detected.
Conclusions:
- Multimorbidity is a significant independent risk factor for suicidal ideation.
- Healthcare providers should proactively assess for suicidal ideation in patients with multimorbidity, particularly those with co-occurring physical and mental health conditions.
- Targeted interventions for individuals with multimorbidity are crucial for reducing the risk of suicidal ideation in clinical practice.
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