Clinical Report: The Association Between Smoking and Suicidal Behavior in Depressed Adolescents
Overview
This study investigates the relationship between smoking and suicidal behavior in adolescents diagnosed with depressive disorders. Among 2,343 participants, current smokers exhibited significantly higher odds of suicidal behavior and self-harm compared to never smokers. The study utilized multivariable binary logistic regression models to analyze the data.
Background
Suicidal behavior and self-harm are critical public health issues among adolescents, particularly those with mood disorders. Understanding the factors associated with these behaviors is essential for developing effective prevention strategies. Smoking has been identified as a potential risk factor in various studies, yet its specific role in adolescents with depressive disorders remains underexplored.
Data Highlights
Variable
Odds Ratio (OR)
95% Confidence Interval (CI)
P-value
Current Smokers vs. Never Smokers (Suicidal Behavior)
2.74
1.81–4.22
<0.001
Past Quitters vs. Never Smokers (Suicidal Behavior)
2.32
1.66–3.28
<0.001
Current Smokers vs. Never Smokers (Self-Harm)
2.31
1.33–4.37
0.006
Education Level (Self-Harm)
0.90
0.81–1.00
0.050
Key Findings
The prevalence of self-harm among participants was 76.0%.
The prevalence of suicidal behavior was 44.2%.
Current smokers had 2.74 times higher odds of suicidal behavior compared to never smokers (OR = 2.74, 95% CI: 1.81–4.22, P<0.001).
Past quitters had 2.32 times higher odds of suicidal behavior compared to never smokers (OR = 2.32, 95% CI: 1.66–3.28, P<0.001).
Current smoking was associated with a 2.31 times increased risk of self-harm (OR = 2.31, 95% CI: 1.33–4.37, P = 0.006).
Each additional year of education was associated with a 10% lower odds of self-harm (OR = 0.90, 95% CI: 0.81–1.00, P = 0.050).
Clinical Implications
The findings indicate a significant association between smoking status and increased risk for suicidal behavior and self-harm in adolescents with depressive disorders.
Conclusion
This study establishes a significant association between smoking and both suicidal behavior and self-harm in depressed adolescents.
