Exploring the role of impulsivity, aggression, lipid profiles, and inflammatory markers in suicide attempts: a...

This study aimed to explore the relationship between suicidal behavior and various factors, including peripheral inflammatory markers, atherogenic indices, serum albumin levels, impulsivity, and aggression.

This cross-sectional study included 100 patients hospitalized for a recent suicide attempt, 74 individuals with psychiatric disorders without a recent suicide attempt, and 85 healthy controls (HC). Peripheral inflammatory markers, atherogenic indices, and serum albumin levels were assessed using fasting blood samples. Impulsivity and aggression were measured with the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale-11 (BIS-11) and the Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire (BPAQ).

Serum albumin levels were significantly lower (p = 0.001), and the neutrophil-to-albumin ratio (NAR) was significantly higher (p < 0.001) in individuals who had recently attempted suicide, compared to both individuals with psychiatric disorders without a recent suicide attempt and the HC group. Logistic regression identified NAR (p = 0.001), low albumin levels (p = 0.017), impulsivity (p = 0.001), and aggression (p < 0.001) as significant predictors of suicidal behavior. Lower education (p = 0.001) and lifetime substance use disorders (p = 0.003) were also significant predictors. No significant differences were found in atherogenic indices.

Low albumin levels and increased NAR are key predictors of suicide risk, underscoring the role of inflammation. Additionally, addressing educational disparities and substance use is crucial for suicide prevention strategies.