Prevalence of suicidal behavior among medical students: a multicenter study and implications for medical education and the university’s social responsibility

Perales A.; Farfán M.; Podestá L.; Izaguirre M.; Padilla A. · Anales de la Facultad de Medicina (2025) · DOI: 10.15381/anales.v86i3.31534

Resumen

Introduction. Suicidal behavior is a complex phenomenon influenced by biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors. Numerous studies have documented a high prevalence among medical students, a particularly vulnerable population due to academic stress, early clinical exposure, and ethical-professional challenges. Objective: To determine the prevalence and associated factors of suicidal behavior among medical students from eight Peruvian universities, using a methodology previously applied at the Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos (UNMSM). Methods. Analytical cross-sectional study with complex, weighted sampling. A total of 2835 students enrolled in 2024 were included. Validated questionnaires on suicidal behavior, mental health, and sociodemographic variables were applied. Bivariate analyses and multivariable logistic regression were conducted to estimate associations, expressed as odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Results. Lifetime prevalence of death wishes was 43.0%, suicidal ideation 31.6%, and suicide attempt 11.8%. Among those who attempted suicide, 57% reported more than one attempt. Fifty-seven percent of those who attempted suicide reported more than one attempt; 41% of students who attempted suicide did not seek help, and 30% reported having considered doing so again. The most significant associated factors were severe family conflict (OR = 2.53) and depressive symptoms (OR = 3.21). No significant differences were found by university or academic year. Notably, 41% of students who attempted suicide did not seek any help. However, a significant group of students enters the university already affected, revealing a community origin prior to any impact of the higher academic enviroment. A significant group of students enter university already affected, revealing a community origin prior to any academic impact. Conclusions. Suicidal behavior affects a considerable proportion of medical students across the country, regardless of institution or academic level. Early detection, prevention, and culturally adapted psychosocial interventions should be implemented in all medical schools. © (2025), All Rights Reserved.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos; Universidad Nacional Federico Villarreal; Universidad Católica de Santa María