[Suicide in Abitibi-Témiscamingue: epidemiologic studies for 1986-1991]

A permanent register on suicide cases was created and has produced a quantitative description of suicide in Abitibi-Temiscamingue over the period 1986-1991. This study reviews 218 suicide cases reported by the Coroner's Office of Quebec. A content analysis grid was applied on the Coroner's files and has facilitated the study of 87 variables potentially related to suicide. The results present the evolution of the suicide rates in this region in relation to those of other parts of Quebec, and the differences between parts of the region. Many variables were related to suicide (age, gender, urban setting, methods, suicide sites, seasons, etc.). A review of recent literature on suicide throughout the world indicates that patterns of suicide in Abitibi-Temiscamingue follow trends in North America with certain differences.