Suicide and suicidal ideation among U.S. surgeons: A systematic review and meta-analysis of prevalence, risk groups, and temporal trends

BACKGROUND: Surgeons face major occupational stressors that increase the risk of burnout and suicide, yet the true prevalence of suicidal ideation and suicide among U.S. surgeons remains uncertain. METHODS: A comprehensive search of Databases identified studies reporting suicidal ideation or suicide among U.S. surgeons. Random-effects models generated pooled prevalence estimates, and subgroup analyses assessed differences by specialty, gender, and training level. RESULTS: Fourteen studies, including 52,671 surgeons, met the criteria. The pooled prevalence of suicidal ideation was 6%, with significant variation across specialties (p = 0.02); orthopaedic surgeons had the highest rate (13%), and OBGYN the lowest (1%). The pooled prevalence of suicide was 5% (95% CI: 0.03-0.07). Attending surgeons showed higher suicidal ideation (11%) than residents (4%), though this difference was not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: Suicidal ideation and suicide remain pressing concerns among U.S. surgeons, with rates varying by specialty and sex. These findings emphasize the need for targeted prevention efforts and improved access to mental healthcare.