Daijiworld Media Network – London
London, Sep 16: Exposure to air pollution may be associated with an increased risk of suicide, suicide attempts and suicidal thoughts, according to a new study by researchers at Queen’s University Belfast.
The researchers examined whether exposure to air, noise, light and water pollution could influence suicide risk and suicidal behaviour. Their meta-analysis of 29 studies found that exposure to fine particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide was associated with a higher risk of suicide, suicide attempts and suicidal ideation.
A further analysis of 16 studies indicated that pollutants including sulphur dioxide and ozone, as well as noise pollution, may also be associated with increased suicide risk. However, the evidence concerning light and water pollution was inconclusive.
The findings, published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, suggest that environmental pollution could be considered as part of broader suicide prevention and public health strategies.
The researchers stressed the importance of recognising environmental exposures as potentially modifiable risk factors and called for greater integration of environmental health measures into mental health policies.
However, experts cautioned that the study establishes associations rather than proving that pollution directly causes suicidal thoughts or behaviour.
Dr Jon Van Niekerk of the Royal College of Psychiatrists said some forms of air pollution may be associated with a small increase in suicidal behaviour, but noted that pollution is also closely linked with factors such as socioeconomic deprivation, urban living, physical health and housing.
Other experts similarly pointed to possible confounding factors and said further research would be required to establish whether pollution itself causes an increased risk of suicide.
According to the World Health Organization, more than 720,000 people die by suicide globally each year. Suicide is also among the leading causes of death among people aged 15 to 29.