A new study has revealed that U.S. military veterans diagnosed with cancer face a significantly higher risk of suicide attempts, particularly within the first six months after diagnosis.

The research was led by Oregon Health & Science University and published in JAMA Oncology. It analyzed Veterans Health Administration data from more than 292,000 veterans with cancer between 2014 and 2023.

According to the findings, suicide attempts among veterans with cancer occurred at a rate of 203 per 100,000, a figure the researchers described as “significantly higher than the general population.”

The study evaluated suicidal self-directed violence, encompassing both fatal and nonfatal attempts. Prescription medications, often opioids, were the most common method in nonfatal cases, while firearms were most frequent in fatal ones.

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The highest risk period was identified as the first six months following a cancer diagnosis, though the danger appeared to persist for up to five years after the initial diagnosis.

Researchers also found that veterans who were younger than 45, female, or had cancers of the central nervous system or thyroid showed increased rates of nonfatal attempts.

Higher suicide risk was most evident in veterans suffering from severe frailty, chronic mental illness, advanced cancer, or those reporting high pain levels.

While the study demonstrated a strong association, the authors emphasized that the data did not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship between cancer and suicide risk.

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Lead researcher Donald R. Sullivan, MD, of Oregon Health & Science University, called the findings a “concerning public health crisis that disproportionately affects America’s servicemen and servicewomen.”

Sullivan explained that a cancer diagnosis can cause an immediate sense of fear and loss of control, describing it as a “profound shock.”

Even for cancers with favorable survival rates, he said the combination of pain, side effects, anxiety, and depression can make patients extremely vulnerable.

“We hope to raise awareness and inform the development of approaches to better support veterans and mitigate the impact of a cancer diagnosis on their well-being,” Sullivan stated. He also called for coordinated efforts in “research, outreach and care.”

Veteran advocates are responding to the findings with concern. Jim Whaley, CEO of Mission Roll Call, noted that more investigation and action are required to address the higher rate of suicide among veterans diagnosed with cancer.

Whaley said it is essential to understand the sequence of factors leading to self-harm and to share research outcomes with organizations assisting veterans in communities across the country.

He stressed that mental health must be viewed as an integral part of overall wellness. “Just as we trained in physical fitness daily, we must exercise our mental health in the same manner,” Whaley said.

Whaley added that while veterans often excel at supporting others, they can struggle with asking for help themselves. He emphasized the importance of educating families and communities to watch for signs of emotional distress.

He also cited data showing that veteran suicides are 425% higher than combat deaths since 9/11. “Despite good intentions, the decline in the number of suicides is not dropping enough to end this scourge,” he said.

Both Sullivan and Whaley urged greater collaboration among health professionals, researchers, and veterans’ organizations to better identify risk factors and improve prevention strategies.

The study underscores the deep emotional and psychological toll that serious illness can place on veterans and the urgent need to strengthen mental health support across the continuum of cancer care.

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Are you feeling overwhelmed or hopeless right now? Have you been withdrawing from people or activities you usually enjoy? Are you having thoughts about hurting yourself, or feeling like things will never improve?

You do not have to handle those feelings alone. Support is available, and talking to someone can make a difference. You can reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988, or by chatting online at 988lifeline.org. Trained counselors are available 24 hours a day to listen and help.

If you believe someone is in immediate danger, call emergency services right away. Even a small step, like reaching out to a trusted friend, family member, or professional, can help create a path forward.