Suicidal behaviours among adults living with cancer in Ghana: prevalence and associated risk factors.

BACKGROUND

Globally, cancer is a complex disease that, if not detected and treated early, can lead to death. The diagnosis of cancer typically causes a profound crisis in the lives of those affected, leading to psychological challenges. People living with cancer tend to exhibit suicidal behaviours due to the difficult nature of the disease.

OBJECTIVE

The primary aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and factors influencing Suicidal behaviours among adults living with cancer at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Ghana.

METHOD

A convenience sampling method was employed to collect data from cancer patients at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. Data were gathered using structured questionnaires and the Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS). Descriptive and inferential statistics, including frequency tables, percentages, and regression analysis with Stata 17, were used for data analysis.

RESULTS

The study found that 57.2% of participants reported suicidal ideation, 14.1% had attempted suicide, and 11.3% had planned suicide. Age, sex, educational level, income, occupational status, and marital status were significantly associated with suicidal behaviour (p-value < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression results shows that patients who experienced recent significant life changes were 15 times more likely to experience suicidal ideation (AOR: 15.0, 95% CI: 9.1-22.9, p < 0.001), twice as likely to have a suicidal plan (AOR: 2.0, 95% CI: 1.0-3.1, p = 0.001), and over five times more likely to attempt suicide (AOR: 5.41, 95% CI: 2.22-6.07, p < 0.001) compared to those who did not experience significant life changes. In Addition, patients who believed they were a burden to others were over three times more likely to experience suicidal ideation (AOR: 3.3, 95% CI: 1.15-4.59, p < 0.001), five times more likely to have a suicidal plan (AOR: 5.0, 95% CI: 3.07-8.13, p < 0.001), and three times more likely to attempt suicide (AOR: 3.0, 95% CI: 2.1-5.3, p < 0.001) compared to those who did not feel this way.

CONCLUSION

This study reveals a high prevalence of suicidal behaviours among cancer patients, with many reporting suicidal ideation, attempts, and plans. Socio-demographic factors, including age, sex, educational level, income, occupational status, and marital status, were linked to higher suicide risk. To achieve SDG 3, particularly Target 3.4 (promoting mental health and well-being) and Target 3.8 (ensuring universal health coverage), the Ghana Health Service and the Ministry of Health should integrate mental health support into routine cancer care.