Background: Suicide is the leading cause of traumatic death for adults 25 years and older, with the impact of any one suicide affecting family, friends, and the community at large. Objectives: This study was conducted to examine risk factors for completed suicides. Methods: Data on all suicides investigated by the San Diego County Medical Examiner’s office from 1996 – 1998 were analyzed. Cases were described in terms of race/ethnicity, age, gender, occupation, marital status, medical history, depression history, prescription medication, substance abuse history, toxicology, previous suicide attempts, and method. Results: Groups found to be at particularly high risk of suicide were male (RR=3.34), white (RR=2.72), and divorced (RR divorced : married=3.92). Individuals in professional/technical (RR=1.63) and production/construction/maintenance (RR=1.47) occupations also had an increased likelihood for suicide. Half of all male suicides were performed using firearms, while females were most likely to overdose on drugs. Females were nearly twice as likely to have attempted suicide previously. Toxicology showed the presence of alcohol in 31% of suicides, and drugs or poisons in 21% (not including deaths attributed to drug overdose). Antidepressants were prescribed for 17%, and 13% were on pain medication. Depression was reported in 46% of victims. Drug abuse history was reported in 10%, with the proportion highest in victims under 25. 12 percent had abused alcohol in the past, with middle-aged victims having the highest reported history of alcohol abuse. Conclusions: Suicide is a major public health problem, but opportunities for prevention exist in a variety of settings.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participants will be able to: 1. Discuss patterns and risk factors for suicide 2. Evaluate potential avenues for suicide prevention 3. Explore data sources for suicide research in their own communities
Keywords: Suicide,
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.