Nationwide retrospective survey on healthcare professionals’ perceptions of suicide-related behaviors among people with head and neck cancer in Japan

Objective To investigate healthcare professionals’ perceptions of suicide-related behaviors among people with head and neck cancers in Japan. Methods A two-phase, multicenter retrospective study was conducted. First, head and neck cancer specialists completed a survey on their experience with suicide-related behaviors and institutional prevention efforts. Second, a medical record review explored associations between suicide-related behaviors and treatment factors. Results There were 152 respondents, of whom 82 (53.9%) had encountered suicide-related behaviors, and 69 (45.4%) had experienced patient suicides. A total of 110 cases of suicide were reported. Only 4.6% of respondents had attended lectures on preventing suicide, although 37.5% had implemented preventive measures. Overall, 27 cases were analyzed, including 18 suicides, and nine attempts. The majority of these involved men who were either smokers or drinkers. Behaviors often occurred when people were post-treatment without any recurrence. Common preceding factors were eating difficulties, speech impairment, and psychological decline. Conclusions Suicide risk among people with head and neck cancer extends well beyond diagnosis and remains under-addressed. Increased awareness and education among healthcare professionals, and provision of multidisciplinary support, are essential for comprehensive prevention.