Air pollution linked to higher suicide risk, international research suggests
Analysis of 29 studies highlights potentially heightened danger from small particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide
TL;DR
- Exposure to airborne small particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide is linked to a heightened risk of death by suicide, suicide attempts, and suicidal ideation.
- Other air pollutants like sulphur dioxide and ozone, as well as noise pollution, may also be associated with higher suicide risk.
- Evidence for light and water pollution's link to suicide risk is inconclusive.
- The findings suggest environmental pollution could be considered in suicide prevention strategies.
- Experts caution that the research shows association, not necessarily causation, and other factors like socioeconomic deprivation and urban living are closely linked.
- Further research is needed to establish a causal link between identified factors and increased suicide risk.