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People with epilepsy have twice the risk of suicide than the general population
Last reviewed: 02.07.2025
The suicide rate among people with epilepsy is higher than in the general population, according to a study published in the journal Epilepsy & Behavior.
Key findings of the study
Sara Melin of the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm and colleagues looked at suicide rates among people with epilepsy in Sweden, comparing them with the general population.
Research scope:
- The sample included 60,952 individuals diagnosed with epilepsy registered in the Swedish Patient Registry between 1990 and 2005 and alive in 2006.
- There were 190 recorded cases of suicide among this group.
Results
- Overall suicide rate: 40.0 per 100,000 person-years.
- Highest frequency: in people aged 45 to 64 years (61.3 cases).
- Gender differences:
- The incidence is higher in men than in women.
- However, the relative risk is higher for women (standardized mortality ratio (SMR) 2.70) compared to men (SMR 1.80).
- Comparison with the general population: People with epilepsy had a 2-fold higher risk of suicide (OR 2.03).
- Methods of suicide:
- Intoxication (50%).
- Hanging, use of cutting objects and firearms (together 25%).
Conclusions
- The risk of suicide is significantly higher in people with epilepsy, especially in women.
- The researchers stress the need for caution in prescribing antiepileptic drugs because of their potential misuse.
"These findings are likely to apply to countries with similar conditions," the authors note.