Suicidal behaviors among undergraduate medical students in Bangladesh

Background: Suicide among medical students is a global public health concern; however, it is often addressed poorly in developing countries like Bangladesh. This study aims to examine suicidal behaviors among undergraduate medical students in Bangladesh.

Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted between February and July of 2019. Data were collected from 583 MBBS students at Bangladesh’s public and private medical colleges. A convenience sampling method was used, and data were collected through a pretested semi-constructed questionnaire.

Results: A lifetime suicidal ideation was found among 23.8% of the participants. Significant associations were found among lifetime suicidal ideation, plan and attempt with depression, comorbidity, and family history. Multivariable logistic regression models revealed that a family history of suicide attempts or death by suicide increased the odds six-fold for ideation, over sixfold for a plan, and threefold for an attempt. Females were twice likely to be susceptible to suicide ideation, plan, and attempt.

Conclusion: Suicidality appears high among medical students in Bangladesh. Levels of depression, comorbidities, as well as substance abuse affect lifetime suicide ideation. A previous history of attempting or committing suicide in the respondent’s family increases the individual risk for ideation, plan, and attempt. Females are more vulnerable than males.