Suicidality among individuals with HIV/AIDS in Benin City, Nigeria: A case-control study

Suicidality has been reported to be common in persons living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). Reports from sub-Saharan countries have been scanty. We surveyed the prevalence of suicidal ideation and attempt among PLWHAs (n=150) and compared them with staff of a local government who acted as controls. Over a third (34.7%) of PLWHAs versus 4% of controls expressed suicidal ideation in the preceding month, with 9.3% attempting suicide in the six months prior to the study. Commonest type of attempt was a drug overdose. Female gender, unemployment, co-morbid illness, living alone and having a partner with the disease were associated with suicidal ideation. Clinicians should routinely enquire about suicidality in PLWHAs to reduce mortality.