Cancer Patients Face 2-4 Times Higher Suicide Risk, Advocacy Groups Urge Inclusion of Psychological Counseling in National Health Insurance

According to a report by Central News Agency, recent research shows that cancer patients in Taiwan face a suicide risk 2 to 4 times higher than the general population, with the highest risk occurring within the first three months after diagnosis. The Breast Cancer Patient Association is urging the government to include psychological counseling for cancer patients under national health insurance coverage.

Cancer care is evolving from merely extending life to providing holistic, person-centered care. Psychological distress among cancer patients is common, and both domestic and international studies confirm a link between cancer diagnosis and increased risk of suicide. A research team from National Taiwan University Hospital analyzed Taiwan’s cancer registry and national mortality data, finding that male cancer patients face a 2.46 times higher suicide risk than the general male population, while female patients face a 2.12 times higher risk.

The risk is especially elevated in the first three months following diagnosis—6.57 times higher for men and 5.83 times higher for women. Another recent study analyzing invasive cancer cases in Taiwan from 1985 to 2018 found that suicide risk among cancer patients is approximately 2 to 4 times that of the general population. This highlights the urgent need to incorporate psychological care into standard treatment, addressing fears, physical changes, family stress, financial burdens, and recurrence anxiety.

Although various psychological support resources are available—such as the Ministry of Health and Welfare’s cancer patient psychological support program, and free counseling services offered by the Cancer Hope Foundation and the Taiwan Cancer Foundation—many patients remain unable to access them. Huang Shu-fang, president of the Breast Cancer Patient Association, pointed out that resources alone are not enough: 'Just because support exists doesn’t mean patients can actually use it.'

Many patients are overwhelmed by treatment decisions and are unaware they 'need' or 'can access' psychological counseling. Even when aware, patients may be deterred by limited slots, geographic distance, complex appointment procedures, financial constraints, or unfamiliarity with counseling. Some who attempt counseling discontinue due to unmet expectations.

Huang emphasized that psychological support for cancer patients should not rely on short-term pilot programs, charitable donations, or fragmented subsidies. Instead, a systematic, sustainable framework is essential.

The association calls for the inclusion of psychological counseling under national health insurance, with clear referral pathways to improve accessibility. They recommend routine psychological screening at diagnosis, during treatment, and in follow-up phases. Care managers and medical teams should proactively inform patients of available counseling resources. Patients with a major illness certificate should receive insurance-covered counseling tailored to their specific needs.

Life is precious. Suicide does not solve problems—there is always a way forward. For counseling or support, call the Ministry of Health and Welfare hotline '1925', the Lifeline '1995', or the Teacher Chang hotline '1980'.