Source: Fox News
Summary
A study by Oregon Health & Science University found that veterans with cancer have a higher risk of suicide attempts, especially in the months following diagnosis. The study analyzed data from over 292,000 veterans with cancer from 2014 to 2023 and found that the risk of suicidal self-directed violence was significantly higher than in the general population. The risk was highest in the first six months after diagnosis and persisted for up to five years.
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The guidance has been heard before.
Veterans with cancer face a higher risk of suicide attempts, a study shows. The risk is especially prevalent in the months following diagnosis and can persist for years. This is not the first time we’ve heard about the struggles of veterans with mental health. The study’s findings are a reminder that the impact of a cancer diagnosis can be devastating, and it’s not just about the physical health, but also the mental well-being. The study’s lead author, Donald R. Sullivan, MD, noted that a cancer diagnosis is often a “profound shock” that can trigger an immediate fear of death. The study’s results show an association between cancer diagnosis and suicidal behavior, but don’t prove that cancer directly caused the suicidal behavior.
It’s a concerning public health crisis that disproportionately affects America’s servicemen and servicewomen. The study’s findings are a call to action to better support veterans and mitigate the impact of a cancer diagnosis on their well-being.
Author: Evan Null
