Association Between Suicidal Ideation and Cancer Screening Uptake: Results from Middle-Aged and Older Adults in Korea

Background: Compliance with cancer screening guidelines is crucial for the early diagnosis and prevention of cancer. We explored the association of suicidal ideation with participation in cancer screening programs. Methods: This cross-sectional analysis included a nationwide sample consisting of 22,554 Korean adults (9667 men and 12,887 women). Suicidal ideation in the past year was self-reported (yes or no). Participation in gastric, colorectal, cervical, and breast cancer screening within the past 2 years was assessed. Logistic regression models were employed to determine the association of suicidal ideation with participation in each cancer screening test. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated. Results: Among men, the participation rates in gastric and colorectal cancer screening were 47.6% and 39.7%, respectively. Among women, the participation rates in gastric, colorectal, cervical, and breast cancer screening were 47.1%, 34.8%, 44.3%, and 50.8%, respectively. In the male sample, suicidal ideation was associated with reduced participation in gastric cancer screening (OR: 0.83, 95% CI: 0.69-0.99) and colorectal cancer screening (OR: 0.82, 95% CI: 0.67-1.00). Similarly, in the female sample, suicidal ideation was inversely associated with participation in gastric (OR: 0.74, 95% CI: 0.67-0.82), colorectal (OR: 0.71, 95% CI: 0.62-0.81), cervical (OR: 0.75, 95% CI: 0.68-0.84), and breast cancer screening (OR: 0.76, 95% CI: 0.68-0.84). Conclusions: This study suggests that individuals with suicidal ideation demonstrated reduced participation in cancer screening tests. This study highlights the need for targeted support to improve access to cancer screening programs for individuals with mental health problems.