Association between smoking status and suicidal ideation, planning, and attempts among adults in South Korea: a population-based cross-sectional survey

Abstract

Introduction: Suicide is a significant global public health concern influenced by diverse factors. Smoking is associated with an increased risk of suicide-related behaviors, yet age- and sex-specific risks remain unclear. This study examined the association between smoking status and suicide-related behaviors, with specific estimates for different age and sex groups.

Methods: This study investigated the association between smoking status (never-smoker, ex-smoker, and current smoker) and suicide-related behaviors (suicidal ideation, planning, and attempts). We extracted the data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey database between January 1st, 2015, and December 31st, 2021. A total of 32,837 participants were included in this study, with a mean (SD) age of 52.3 (0.09) years. Multivariable logistic regression was adjusted for age, sex, BMI, income level, education level, active physical activity, alcohol consumption, and comorbid conditions (perceived stress, perceived symptoms of depression, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia). We explored the potential dose-response relationship by stratifying the analysis based on participants' smoking intensity, as measured by pack-years. We also performed the subgroup analysis for the following variables: age groups, sex, income level, alcohol consumption, active physical activity, perceived stress, and perceived symptoms of depression. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. Statistical analyses were done using R software, version 4.2.3.

Results: Current smokers demonstrated significantly elevated risks for suicidal ideation (OR 2.022, 95% CI 1.913-2.137), planning (OR 2.138, 95% CI 1.930-2.368), and attempts (OR 2.082, 95% CI 1.942-2.232). Ex-smokers also exhibited increased risks for suicidal ideation (OR 1.553, 95% CI 1.467-1.644) and attempts (OR 1.567, 95% CI 1.458-1.684), though not for planning (OR 1.087, 95% CI 0.963-1.228). Our findings suggested the potential dose-dependent relationship. Notably, males aged 40-59 were found to be the most vulnerable group for suicide-related behaviors.

Conclusion: This study underscores the significant association of smoking with increased risks of suicidal behaviors, particularly among current smokers. Males aged 40 to 59 emerged as a high-risk group. Findings emphasize the critical role of smoking cessation in suicide prevention, necessitating targeted interventions. Prospective studies should delve into causal pathways to inform effective prevention strategies.

Keywords: South Korea; smoking; suicidal ideation; suicidal planning; suicide attempt.

Figure 1

Age-stratified estimates on the association between smoking status and suicide-related behaviors. (A) ex-smoker, (B) current smoker.