Epidemiology of Suicide and Associated Factors in Bam: A Historical Cohort Study

Suicide attempts, recognized as a significant public health concern, have been categorized among antisocial behaviors. This study aims to examine the epidemiology of suicide and its associated individual, familial, and social factors in Bam City, Iran.

A historical cohort study was conducted on all recorded cases (N=3276) of suicide attempts registered in the hospital reporting system and healthcare center at Bam University of Medical Sciences from 2016 to 2022. Data were systematically extracted using a standardized checklist. Suicide attempt rates and mortality rates were calculated and presented in this study. Temporal trends in suicide mortality and attempts were analyzed using joinpoint regression.

The findings indicate that men reported a significantly higher suicide completion rate compared to women, with hanging being identified as the most lethal method. While overall suicide rates declined by 1.3% during the study period, a concerning 14.2% increase was observed from 2020 to 2022. Suicide rates among individuals under 35 showed a slighty increasing trend, whereas those aged 35 and older experienced a decline. Additionally, poisoning emerged as the most prevalent method across both genders.

The study underscores age-specific differences in suicide risk, highlighting the need for targeted prevention strategies. While the death rates increased among younger individuals during the pandemic, they declined for older adults, suggesting variations in vulnerability and coping mechanisms.

Suicide prevention should be tailored to different age groups, incorporating mental health support for youth facing economic and social pressures, as well as resources for older adults. Strengthening community programs, economic assistance, and access to mental health services remain essential in reducing suicide rates across diverse demographics.