[Risk factors for suicide attempts in dual diagnosis patients].
BACKGROUND
Patients suffering from both psychiatric disorders and substance abuse/addiction are titled "dual diagnosis patients" (DDP). Substance abuse/addiction is associated with suicidal behavior. Although our knowledge of substance abuse/addiction and suicide behavior is increasing, we lack sufficient knowledge of suicide among DDP.


OBJECTIVE
(1) To compare the rate of suicide attempts among DDP and non-DDP; (2) To determine risk factors for suicide attempts in DDP.


METHODS
Analysis of 3,433 consecutive admissions: men and women aged 18-65 years in our center (06/2003-06/2005).


RESULTS
Of 848 DDPs' admissions, 197 (23.2%) were after suicide attempts, whereas 403 of 2558 non-DDP's admissions (15.8%) were after suicide attempts (odds ratio [OR] = 1.6; 95% confidence interval [95% CI] = 1.3 - 1.9). The OR in the multiple analysis was 1.4 [95% CI] = 1.1 - 1.8). By multivariate regression analysis, the positive result for Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in the urine analysis was a protective factor and a diagnosis of disorders of adult personality and behavior (according to the International Classification of Disease - 10 edition [ICD-10]) was an independent risk factor for suicide attempts.


CONCLUSIONS
DDP have greater risks of suicide attempts than non-DDP. A comprehensive plan of preventive interventions for multidisciplinary staff is recommended in order to reduce suicide rates in DDP.
Gimelfarb
Yuri
Y
Abarbanel Mental Health Center, Bat Yam, Israel. ystatist@gmail.com
Natan
Zipi
Z
D000289:Admitting Department, Hospital / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007557:Israel; D008297:Male; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis*; D008875:Middle Aged; D012044:Regression Analysis; D012307:Risk Factors; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis*; D013406:Suicide, Attempted / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D055815:Young Adult