Blood test may predict suicide risk

Recent research by American scientists shows that blood tests can predict the risk of suicide, preventing deaths due to this cause.

A simple blood test could help doctors predict a person's risk of suicide. Illustration: Alamy

In the study, scientists at Johns Hopkins University discovered a relationship between the variation of the SKA2 gene and the risk of realizing suicidal intentions in humans. According to the analysis results, the SKA2 gene will stop working in people with suicidal intentions and the concentration of chemicals that affect the function of SKA2 in these people is higher than normal.

The SKA2 gene, found in the prefrontal cortex of the brain, is responsible for controlling levels of cortisol, a stress hormone that is involved in suppressing negative thoughts and controlling impulsive behavior. Without enough SKA2 or any other mutations, the human body cannot control cortisol.

According to the Telegraph, these changes can be detected through a simple blood test and predict the likelihood of suicide with 90% accuracy. The team of experts can also tell whether someone has ever attempted suicide by observing SKA2 levels, with 96% accuracy. This way, doctors or therapists can come up with appropriate interventions.

Suicide is a preventable mental health problem. This new research will help doctors to apply timely and accurate treatment to each case. Testing and testing will continue in the future.

According to VnExpress