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Suicide in North and West Devon: a comparative study using Coroner's inquest records
1Department of Public Health Medicine, North Devon Health Authority, Riversvale, Barnstaple.
Journal of Public Health Medicine
|December 1, 1993
Summary
Local factors significantly influence suicide methods and demographics in North and West Devon. Rural environments and gun availability contribute to higher violent suicide rates compared to England and Wales.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
- Forensic Psychiatry
Background:
- Suicide rates and methods vary geographically.
- Understanding local factors is crucial for targeted prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize suicides among North and West Devon residents.
- To compare these suicides with those of non-residents within the area and with national data for England and Wales.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective descriptive study.
- Analysis of Coroner's confidential inquest records.
- Data collected over a three-year period (1 January 1988 – 31 December 1990).
Main Results:
- Non-residents committing suicide in the area were younger, more likely to be male, and had a history of self-harm compared to Devon residents.
- Devon residents showed a higher likelihood of violent death, specifically from firearms, and a lower likelihood of death by hanging compared to the rest of England and Wales.
- Local factors identified include isolated rural settings, high bridges, and gun availability, influencing suicide methods.
Conclusions:
- Local environmental and demographic factors significantly impact suicide characteristics.
- The availability of specific means (e.g., firearms) in rural areas influences suicide methods.
- The Coroner's verdict may also play a role in local suicide rates.