Key facts
- Veterans with cancer have a higher risk of suicide attempts than the general population.
- The elevated risk is particularly high in the first six months after diagnosis and can last up to five years.
- Suicide attempt rates were 203 per 100,000 veterans with cancer.
- Higher risk was observed in younger veterans, females, and those with specific cancer types like CNS or thyroid cancer.
- Prescription medications were the most common method for nonfatal attempts, while firearms were most common for fatal attempts.
This study highlights a critical public health crisis affecting American veterans. The findings underscore the profound psychological impact of a cancer diagnosis, extending beyond physical treatment to encompass long-term mental well-being. The elevated risk of suicide attempts among veterans with cancer points to a need for enhanced support systems and targeted interventions within the veteran healthcare framework.