[Suicide mortality in Poland as compared to EU countries--recent trends and demographic determinants]

The main purpose of this study was to examine recent trends in suicide mortality and to compare Poland with EU statistics. Data were obtained from Health for All Mortality Database, January 2007. Suicide is one of the leading cause of death in adolescents and young adults, however suicide rates are much higher in older adults. The relationship between suicide rates and age is different in Poland and EU countries. In Poland suicide rates peaked in middle ages while global EU pattern showed maximum in old elderly people. Polish suicide mortality profile demonstrates more than ever unequal gender distribution, which is more evident in adolescents and young adults. In last years in most European countries decline in suicide rates was observed. In Poland increasing trend concerns male population, especially young males aged 15-29, in contrast with relatively favorable decreasing patterns in other EU countries. Comparing to unintentional injuries, too little is known about evidence-based preventive practices.