Association between Metastatic Cancer, Chemotherapy, and Suicide Risks: An Analysis Across 700 U.S. Trauma Centers

Area of Science:

• Trauma Surgery
• Oncology
• Psychiatry

Background:

• Trauma patients face unique psychological challenges.
• The interplay between metastatic cancer, chemotherapy, and suicide risk requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the association between metastatic cancer, chemotherapy, and suicide attempts in adult trauma patients.
• To identify risk factors influencing suicide injuries within this population.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of the Trauma Quality Program Participant Use File (2017-2019).
• Inclusion of 27,474 adult trauma patients from 700 U.S. Trauma Centers.
• Logistic regression models adjusted for demographic, clinical, and injury-related factors.

Main Results:

• 0.91% of patients reported suicide injuries.
• Metastatic cancer was associated with higher odds of suicide injuries (adjusted OR: 1.925).
• Chemotherapy was associated with lower odds of suicide injuries (adjusted OR: 0.444).
• These associations were not significant after full adjustment, indicating the influence of other factors.

Conclusions:

• Metastatic cancer patients demonstrated a higher prevalence of suicide injuries.
• While initial analyses suggested links between metastatic cancer, chemotherapy, and suicide risk, further adjustment revealed multifaceted influences.
• Emphasizes the need for comprehensive mental health assessments and interventions in oncology care, especially for advanced cancer patients.