The most recent figures communicated by the National Suicide Observatory and taken up by le Monde claim that an average of 25 people end their lives every day. Suicide is often the sad consequence of problems related to poor mental health, but it is no longer predictable, to the great misfortune of loved ones who often find themselves immersed in incomprehension. Science could, however, move things forward in the near future, according to the findings of researchers at Binghamton University in New York State. There is indeed a biological link between people with suicidal tendencies, and it is the blood that would bear the trace. The study focused on 73 mothers, of whom 34 admitted to hurting themselves intentionally with the aim of ending their lives and 39 others never had any history of suicidal behavior. Blood samples were taken from each of the women and the scientists noticed a similarity in those who had harmed themselves in the past:a low level of BDNF, a protein that plays a key role in good neuronal development. /P>
A blood test could therefore soon be enough to detect a predisposition to suicidal tendencies. “A nurse or doctor would do the blood test, as is the case now. This test would measure the levels of BDNF in the blood. It is a protein responsible for synaptic plasticity, evolution and functioning of neurons […] Impaired synaptic plasticity is thought to play a role in the development of dark thoughts says Dr. Leigh who worked on the study. Although the first research is conclusive, it needs to be deepened “over several years”. The practitioner nevertheless remains confident:he reveals that people who will be diagnosed in the future as having a predisposition to suicidal tendencies can be taken care of at regular intervals, so that a potential depression can be treated. carefully. Giving special support to vulnerable beings – who do not always speak openly about their discomfort – is, in our opinion, an excellent way to save lives. All you have to do is cross your fingers that the rest of the study will live up to the expectations of health professionals!
