Burden associated with smoking as a suicidal risk factor in an Australian sample of patients with psychosis

Objective: We aim to describe the burden associated with smoking as a risk factor for suicidal behaviors among patients with psychosis. Method: We calculated the Population Attributable Risk (PAR) associated with smoking and other known modifiable risk factors for suicidal behaviors for participants (N=1812) who took part in the Australian Survey of High Impact Psychosis (SHIP). A combined PAR for the seven identified modifiable risk factors was calculated. Results: Smoking contributed to 21% of the suicidal behaviors in this sample; together, the seven factors contributed to 86% of all attempted suicide in this cohort. Conclusions: Smoking may exert a role either directly or indirectly. Evidence indicates that smoking is associated with psychological, biochemical and neurobiological changes that are in turn implicated in smoking. Suicidal behaviors are nevertheless complex behaviors needing multi-faceted approach.