Ideación suicida y variables asociadas en estudiantes universitarios de Medicina: un análisis de correspondencias múltiples

Introduction

The suicide rate among medical students is higher than in the general population and has been associated with discrimination from superiors, depression, anxiety, burnout, and substance use. The objective of this study was to identify distinct profiles of suicidal ideation in medical students and to determine the variables that predict elevated levels of suicidal ideation.

Material and methods

A total of 440 medical students participated, completing a sociodemographic questionnaire, the University Student Burnout Scale, the Beck Depression and Anxiety Inventories, the Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation, and the ASSIST v3.0 substance use screening test.

Results

Multiple Correspondence Analysis identified four profiles: 1) no-risk participants; 2) low-risk participants, comprised primarily of men with low suicidal ideation, minimal levels of anxiety and depression, and low substance use; 3) medium-risk participants, comprised primarily of women with moderate suicidal ideation, moderate to severe anxiety, and moderate to severe depression; and 4) high-risk participants with severe suicidal ideation, elevated academic burnout, and high levels of substance use. Logistic Regression indicated that younger age, higher levels of anxiety and depression, and higher risk of tranquilizer use predict elevated levels of suicidal ideation.

Conclusion

The results demonstrate the need to implement specific interventions targeted at each identified profile, paying special attention to the variables that predict the presence of elevated suicidal ideation.