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Changes in suicide in England and Wales, 1960-1997
1Imperial College School of Medicine, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London.
Summary
Suicide rates in England and Wales fluctuated, with a notable decrease for both males and females from 1990 to 1997. This decline aligns with public health targets, particularly concerning methods like motor vehicle exhaust gas.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Mortality Statistics
Background:
- Suicide rates in England and Wales have shown significant fluctuations since the 1960s.
- Understanding temporal trends in suicide is crucial for public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze changes in suicide rates in England and Wales from 1960 to 1997.
- To identify demographic and methodological shifts in suicide over nearly four decades.
Main Methods:
- Utilized annual suicide data and estimated resident population figures.
- Data sourced from the Office for National Statistics for England and Wales.
Main Results:
- Suicide rates declined for both genders from the early 1960s to the mid-1970s.
- Male suicide rates rose between 1975 and 1990, while female rates continued to decrease.
- A significant decrease in suicide rates for all age groups was observed between 1990 and 1997, linked to reduced use of motor vehicle exhaust gas.
Conclusions:
- The decrease in suicide rates from 1990 to 1997 for both genders aligns with the 'Health of the Nation' initiative.
- Changes in suicide methods, such as the decline in using motor vehicle exhaust gas, influenced overall trends.