[Space-time distribution of suicide in Galicia, Spain [1976-1998]]

To study the space-time distribution of suicide in Galicia from 1976 to 1998, taking into account gender, age, season and method of suicide.

For each sex crude and age-adjusted rates per province and age-specific rates per period (1978-84, 1985-91, 1992-98) were calculated. To estimate mortality risk and time trends in the municipalities, a Bayesian hierarchical model was used.

In the last few years mortality from suicide has increase considerably. Age-adjusted rates of 6 per 105 at the beginning of the study rose to 10 per 105 at the end. The increase was greatest among men. The higher rates were observed in the elderly, although in terms of time trends the highest increase occurred among adolescents and young adults. In both sexes the main method of suicide was hanging. Less common methods were jumping from a height and shooting. The greatest number of suicides took place during the spring and summer months. In terms of spatial distribution, a high number of suicides were committed in the province of Lugo; in the municipalities, mortality risk decreased from North to South and an inverse temporal trend was observed in both sexes. This differed from the space-time patterns of suicides committed using methods other than hanging.

Suicide is an important health problem in Galicia not only because to its magnitude but also because of the increasing rates, especially among young people. Geographical and temporal analysis can identify priority areas where preventive policies should be implemented.