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Pediatric suicides reported to U.S. poison centers.
Jennifer A Ross1, Molly H Woodfin1, Saumitra V Rege1
1Division of Medical Toxicology, Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
Clinical Toxicology (Philadelphia, Pa.)
|March 4, 2022
Summary
The rate of pediatric suicide-related self-poisoning cases has significantly increased, particularly in younger children aged 10-12. Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen are frequently used in these incidents.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric mental health
- Toxicology
- Public health
Background:
- The pediatric mental health crisis is escalating, leading to a rise in adolescent suicide-related incidents.
- Self-poisoning among adolescents is a growing concern, with increasing cases reported.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze trends in pediatric suspected suicides between 2015 and 2020.
- To identify age groups and substances most affected by the rise in self-poisoning.
Main Methods:
- Data from the National Poison Data System was analyzed.
- Trends in rates and frequencies of pediatric suspected suicides were examined from 2015 to 2020.
Main Results:
- Over 514,000 pediatric suspected suicides were analyzed.
- The highest increase in suspected suicides was observed in children aged 10-12 (109.3%).
- Acetaminophen and ibuprofen were the most common substances, with acetaminophen showing the largest increase in exposure rates.
Conclusions:
- The findings indicate a worsening pediatric mental health crisis extending to younger populations.
- Easier access to over-the-counter medications may contribute to their use in pediatric self-poisoning.
- Mental health screenings and interventions are crucial for preventing further increases in self-poisoning cases.
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