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Published on: December 15, 2023
Deciphering causality between social/physical activity and suicide attempt: evidence from Mendelian randomization.
Haiqi Li1, Feixue Yue1, Xuan Gu2
1Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.
Engaging in physical activities like walking and light DIY may protect against suicide attempts (SA). These activities, especially for individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), can be a preventative strategy for SA.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Genetics
- Public Health
Background:
- The causal link between social/physical activity and suicide attempts (SA) is unclear.
- The role of psychiatric disorders in this relationship requires elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the causal associations between social/physical activity and SA using genetic variants.
- To explore the mediating role of psychiatric disorders in the activity-SA relationship.
Main Methods:
- Utilized Mendelian randomization (MR) with genetic variants from the iPSYCH and FinnGen databases.
- Employed two-step MR and multivariate MR (MVMR) to assess mediation by psychiatric disorders.
Main Results:
- Physical activities (walking, light DIY, other exercises) showed protective effects against SA.
- Leisure/social inactivity was identified as a risk factor for SA.
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) mediated a significant portion of the effect of light DIY and other exercises on SA.
Conclusions:
- Social and physical activity are protective factors against suicide attempts.
- Promoting light DIY and other exercises can be a viable SA prevention strategy.
- Targeting interventions for individuals with ADHD is crucial for SA prevention.
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