| In a study published in the May edition of the Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, researchers examined the association between asthma and suicidal ideation with and without attempts among adults in the United States, specifically investigating the role of cigarette smoking, nicotine dependence, depression, anxiety, and alcohol abuse. Data on 5,692 individuals 18 years and older were analyzed to examine the study objectives. Results showed that estimates of lifetime prevalence for suicidal ideation without and with attempts and asthma were 8.7%, 4.2%, and 12%, respectively. Being a woman, a current smoker, depressed, anxious, an alcohol abuser, or nicotine dependent increased the likelihood of suicidal ideation with attempts and asthma. Accounting for adjustments, a statistically significant association remained between asthma and suicidal ideation with attempts. The authors concluded that cigarette smoking and concurrent mental health conditions may independently account for significant proportions of the association between asthma and suicidal ideation with attempts – more research is needed to further examine the association between asthma and suicide attempts. To view the abstract of the study, visit http://lysander.annallergy.org/vl=1851352/cl=30/nw=1/rpsv/cw/acaai/10811206/v100n5/s7/p439. |
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