Daily smoking linked to suicide

Reported by Susan Aldridge, PhD, medical journalist

A new study reveals that daily smoking is associated with both suicidal thoughts and attempts.
Previous work has shown a link between cigarettes and suicide. However, it is not clear whether smoking causes depression or whether it is the other way round. In further research, scientists at Michigan State University reveal that current daily smokers are more likely to suffer with suicidal thoughts and they make more suicidal bids.

They studied nearly 900 people, asking them about their smoking history and then following them up for ten years. During this time there were 19 suicidal attempts and 130 participants admitted suicidal thoughts. The biological explanation of the link between smoking and suicide remains unclear, but depression occurring in those who smoke should always be taken seriously. Treatment may reduce the suicide risk.

Source
Archives of General Psychiatry March 2005 Volume 62 pages 328-334

Please take a moment to give us your comments. For questions about Health matters you may check our "Questions & Answers" Portal and Service.