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Death by suicide in Grampian 1991-1999: comparison with a previous study
K S Nicoll1, M A McGee, J S Callender
1Royal Cornhill Hospital, Cornhill Road, Aberdeen AB25 2ZH. kirsteen.nicol@gpct.Grampian.scot.nhs.uk
Scottish Medical Journal
|June 24, 2004
Summary
Suicide rates in Grampian remain high, particularly in males, with a shift towards hanging as the primary method. Firearm deaths decreased significantly after 1997 legislation.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Grampian, Scotland, has historically experienced high rates of suicide and undetermined deaths.
- Previous studies have established baseline data for suicide trends in the region.
- Understanding recent trends is crucial for public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze changes in suicide and undetermined death rates in Grampian from 1991-1999.
- To compare current trends with historical data from the same population.
- To identify shifts in methods and risk factors associated with suicide.
Main Methods:
- Inclusion of all suicide and undetermined deaths recorded by the General Register Office for Scotland in Grampian.
- Linkage of death records with psychiatric case records from Grampian Health Board.
- Statistical analysis to identify trends, changes in methods, and risk factor associations.
Main Results:
- High suicide and undetermined death rates persist, primarily driven by male mortality.
- Hanging has become the most common suicide method, replacing firearms, which significantly decreased post-1997 legislation.
- Increased drug use and a history of multiple suicide attempts are noted among individuals with psychiatric contact.
Conclusions:
- Significant changes in suicide trends are evident in Grampian, mirroring broader Scottish patterns.
- The findings highlight the need for targeted strategies to address evolving suicide methods and risk factors.
- Further discussion on intervention strategies is warranted based on these observed trends.
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