Analysis of Suicide After Cancer Diagnosis by US County-Level Income and Rural vs Urban Designation, 2000-2016

Source:

Suk R, Hong Y, Wasserman RM, et al. Analysis of Suicide After Cancer Diagnosis by US County-Level Income and Rural vs Urban Designation, 2000-2016. JAMA Netw Open. 2021;4(10):e2129913. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.29913

Key Points

Question  Do US counties with differing levels of income and urbanicity vary in rates of suicide among people after cancer diagnosis?

Findings  In this cohort study that included 5 362 782 people with a cancer diagnosis, there was a significantly higher suicide risk in those living in the lowest-income counties and in rural settings. The risk was highest in the first year after diagnosis and remained higher in those living in the lowest-income counties 10 or more years after diagnosis.

Meaning  This study’s findings suggest that efforts to provide increased preventive mental health services for individuals with cancer, especially for those living in low-income and rural areas, are needed.