Suicide among veterans with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Background The purpose of this study was to estimate the risk of death by suicide for those with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) seeking care within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Methods This was a retrospective, cohort study. Extended Cox regression models were used to compare the hazard of suicide between the ALS and the unexposed groups. Results The hazard of suicide was 3.98 times higher for those with ALS than for those without (95% confidence interval [CI] , 2.64-6.00; P < .0001). After adjusting for covariates, those with ALS remained at increased risk (hazard ratio, 3.48; 95% CI, 2.31-5.24; P < .001). Conclusions Among those seeking care in the VHA, individuals with ALS are at increased risk for dying by suicide. Additional suicide prevention efforts, including strategies for reducing access to lethal means, are warranted.

Automated summary

The study found that individuals with ALS seeking care in the VHA are at increased risk of suicide, with the hazard being nearly four times higher than those without ALS. To reduce the risk of suicide, additional suicide prevention efforts, including strategies for reducing access to lethal means, are needed.