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The truth about suicide in Portugal
E F de Castro1, F Pimenta, I Martins
1Miguel Bombarda Hospital, Lisbon, Portugal.
Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica
|October 1, 1989
Summary
Male suicide rates in Portugal have decreased due to underreporting. Suicides are being misclassified as controversial cases, hindering prevention efforts and requiring improved data registration.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Forensic Science
Background:
- Male suicide rates have unexpectedly declined in Portugal, diverging from international trends.
- This trend necessitates an investigation into potential statistical anomalies or underreporting.
- Previous research indicates variations in suicide reporting across different regions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the reasons behind the decrease in male suicide rates in Portugal.
- To compare suicide rates with controversial cases (ICD-9 E 980-989) and homicide rates.
- To assess the accuracy of suicide data registration in Portugal.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of suicide rates, controversial cases, and homicide rates in Portugal since 1980.
- Examination of demographic and seasonal patterns of suicide and controversial cases.
- Statistical comparison of profiles based on sex, age, and marital status.
Main Results:
- Controversial cases (ICD-9 E 980-989) increased 12-fold for males and 21-fold for females since 1980.
- The demographic and seasonal profiles of controversial cases closely resemble those of suicides.
- Homicide rates remained stable and exhibited a distinct profile compared to suicides.
Conclusions:
- Significant underreporting of suicides in Portugal since 1980, with cases misclassified as controversial.
- Current statistical data hinders effective suicide investigation and prevention strategies.
- Urgent improvements in suicide reporting and registration are crucial for accurate public health data.