Author(s)
Lauren R. McCray, BS
Megan Scharner, BS
Shaun A. Nguyen, MD
Habib G. Rizk, MD MSCR
Ted A. Meyer, MD PhD
Robert F. Labadie, MD PhD
Affiliation(s)
Medical University of South Carolina;
Abstract:
Educational Objective: At the conclusion of this presentation, the participants should be able to understand the relationship between tinnitus and suicidality.
Objectives: The goal of this systematic review is to demonstrate the relationship between tinnitus and suicidality including suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, self-harm injuries, and completed suicide. Furthermore, we want to highlight the clinical importance of the relationship between tinnitus and mental health.
Study Design: A systematic review with meta-analysis.
Methods: This PRISMA adherent systematic review involved a systematic search of CINAHL, Cochrane Library, PubMed, PsycINFO and SCOPUS databases from inception through June 14, 2024. Random effects meta-analyses (single means, proportions, and relative risks) were used for primary analysis.
Results: Of the 7,780 abstracts identified, ten studies (N= 1,798,305 ) pertaining to suicidality and tinnitus in an adult population were included. The mean age was 59.6 (range: 19-88) for the tinnitus group and 54.3 for the control group. The tinnitus group reported significantly higher prevalence of depression (14.5% vs. 7.2%), stress (32.9% vs. 24.8%), suicidal ideation (19.5% vs. 8.8%), and suicide attempt (1.9% vs. 0.9%) than the control population. The tinnitus group had a significantly (p less than 0.001) higher risk of suicidal ideation (RR = 2.4, 95% CI: 1.8-3.4) and suicide attempts (RR = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.3-2.4) than the control group.
Conclusions: Tinnitus can be a disabling condition, with significant impact on mental health. The literature demonstrates a relationship between tinnitus and suicidality. Otolaryngology practitioners interacting with these patients should be mindful of that association.