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Firearm suicide among older men
1School of Social Work, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 61801 USA.
Psychiatric Services (Washington, D.C.)
|March 1, 1996
Summary
Firearm suicide rates increased among older white and black men from 1979-1991. Elderly men, particularly those 75+, experienced significant firearm suicide rate increases, highlighting a critical public health concern.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Firearm suicide is a significant concern among the elderly population.
- Understanding trends in firearm suicide rates is crucial for targeted prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze epidemiologic trends in firearm suicide rates among older men (65+) in the United States.
- To examine trends across different age groups (65-74, 75-84, 85+) and racial categories (white and black).
Main Methods:
- Analysis of data from the Compressed Mortality File (1979-1991).
- Stratification of suicide rates by age group, race, and method (firearm vs. other).
Main Results:
- Firearms accounted for 80% of all suicides among men aged 65+ in 1991.
- Significant increases in firearm suicide rates were observed over time in white men across all age groups, especially those 75 and older.
- Firearm suicide rates also increased significantly among black men aged 75 to 84.
Conclusions:
- Firearm suicide rates show concerning upward trends among elderly men, particularly older age groups and specific racial demographics.
- Clinicians should assess firearm availability in elderly men presenting with depression or suicidal ideation.
- Targeted public health interventions are needed to address firearm suicide in the aging male population.