Suicide and suicidal ideation among U.S. surgeons: A systematic review and meta-analysis of prevalence, risk groups, and temporal trends.

In 30 seconds

This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the prevalence of suicidal ideation and suicide among U.S. surgeons, analyzing data from 14 studies involving 52,671 surgeons. The study found a pooled prevalence of suicidal ideation at 6% and suicide at 5%, with significant variation across surgical specialties, highlighting the need for targeted mental health interventions.

Key findings

• The pooled prevalence of suicidal ideation among U.S. surgeons was 6%.
• Orthopaedic surgeons had the highest rate of suicidal ideation at 13%.
• The pooled prevalence of suicide among U.S. surgeons was 5%.
• Attending surgeons exhibited a higher rate of suicidal ideation at 11% compared to residents at 4%.

Why it matters

Understanding the prevalence of suicidal ideation and suicide among surgeons is crucial for developing effective mental health support and prevention strategies, ultimately improving clinician well-being and patient care.