Citation

Silva S, Maia AC. Revista de Psiquiatria do Rio Grande do Sul 2010; 32(3): 69-72.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2010)

DOI

10.1590/S0101-81082010005000002

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Suicide attempts are often associated with eating disorders, both anorexia and bulimia. Likewise, a high incidence of suicide has been observed among obese patients. Previous studies have shown that adverse experiences in childhood may be a risk factor for suicide attempts.

OBJECTIVES: To characterize and to understand the relationship between adverse experiences and suicide attempts in 100 morbidly obese patients referred for bariatric surgery.

METHODS: A total of 100 patients were selected from September 2007 to October 2007 and from January 2008 to January 2009. Of these, 20 patients were male. Mean age was 38.89±9.87 years, and mean maximum weight was 136.43±14 kg. The Portuguese version of the Family ACE (Adverse Childhood Experiences) Questionnaire was used to assess the occurrence of adverse events.

RESULTS: 88% of the patients reported the existence of at least one adverse experience in childhood, and 25% reported at least one previous suicide attempt. Adversity in childhood was associated with an increased risk for suicide attempts (odds ratio = 2.026).

CONCLUSION: These data should be taken into account in the assessment and monitoring of these patients. Copyright © Revista de Psiquiatria do Rio Grande do Sul - APRS.

Language: pt

Keywords

adult; human; female; male; suicide attempt; Bariatric surgery; early life stress; Portugal; risk factor; article; major clinical study; questionnaire; Suicide, attempted; patient assessment; bariatric surgery; morbid obesity; Obesity, morbid