Prevalence and incidence of suicide, suicidal ideation and self-harm in caregivers of cancer patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

ObjectiveCaregiving burden is set to increase with the rising incidence of cancer globally. The meta-analysis seeks to investigate the prevalence of suicide, suicidal ideation and self-harm among the caregivers of patients with cancer (CPCs). MethodsThis PRISMA-adherent systematic review involved a systematic search of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane and PsycINFO for all studies that evaluated the prevalence of suicide, suicidal ideation and self-harm in CPCs. Random effects meta-analyses were used for primary analysis. ResultsEleven studies were included. Meta-analyses indicated that the prevalence of suicidal ideation in CPCs was 11% (95%CI:6–18), suicide prevalence was 6% (95%CI:3–12), and self-harm prevalence was 15% (95%CI:8–26). Subgroup analyses revealed that CPCs above the age of 50 experienced a greater prevalence of suicidal ideation (17%, 95%CI:10–28) as compared to CPCs below 50 (6%, 95%CI:3–12). Family caregivers particularly spouses were also found to have a higher prevalence of suicidal ideation (17%, 95%CI:13–23), as compared to children (5%, 95%CI:2–10) or mothers (3%, 95%CI:1–8). Systematic review found that having a pre-existing mental health condition and lower socioeconomic status increased likelihood of suicidality. ConclusionWe highlight the need for more support of CPCs at risk of suicidality. Additional research is warranted to identify other risk and protective factors.