Neurodegenerative disease and suicide

Abstract

IntroductionThe conceptualization of suicidal behavior is very complex and constitutes a worldwide health problem. Its etiology is multifactorial and in many cases preventable. Suicide and neurodegenerative disease have some risk factors in common, such as depression, feelings of hopelessness and social isolation. ObjectiveTo find out if patients with Parkinson's disease (PD), multiple sclerosis (MS), Alzheimer's disease (AD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Huntington's disease (HD) are more likely to present suicidal behavior than the general population and to ascertain the most relevant risk factors. MethodA review of scientific articles in databases was carried out, as well as of protocols and documents published on national and government websites linking neurodegenerative disease and suicide. ResultsA clear relationship was found between suicide and MS, ALS and HD. Results in relation to PD and AD are somewhat contradictory but a series of risk factors were detected, the presence of which could predispose individuals to this behavior. ConclusionsThere is a greater risk of suicidal behavior in patients with MS, ALS and HD. A series of relevant risk factors associated with this behavior were found, knowledge of which will help us to detect warning signs and take early action.