Body mass index weight categories in adults who died by suicide: An observational study

There is conflicting evidence about the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and suicide death. This study aimed to characterize and compare suicide deaths by weight using BMI weight categories.

We examined suicide deaths in adults in the city of Toronto (2009-2015); grouped them by BMI categories (underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obese) and compared groups based on demographics, clinical variables and method of suicide death.

Suicide decedents' (n = 1429) mean age was 48.6 years (SD = 17.4) and mean BMI was 25.5 (SD = 5.4). Underweight decedents were more likely to be female and to have cancer while obese decedents were more likely to have diabetes. Underweight decedents were more likely to have an identified history of any medical condition. Obese and overweight decedents were significantly more likely to have an identified history of any psychiatric condition. Non-violent methods (e.g., self-poisoning) were used at a higher proportion by people with obesity and by people who were underweight.

Psychological autopsies were not available and it was not possible to assess for change in or stability of BMI over time.

These findings add to our understanding of the relationship between suicide and weight. A higher prevalence of females as well as those with a history of cancer and any medical condition in underweight decedents was noteworthy and of potential clinical significance.