Suicide is a global issue that continues to impact millions of people around the world. According to a recent study published in The Lancet Public Health, about 740,000 suicides are reported annually, equating to one death every 43 seconds. The study, conducted by researchers at the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington’s School of Medicine, analyzed data on suicide rates from 1990 to 2021 by region, country, year, age, sex, and method of suicide.
The study revealed some encouraging trends, such as a nearly 40% decrease in the global age-standardized mortality rate for suicide over the last three decades. This decline indicates that intervention and prevention efforts are making a positive impact. Specifically, the suicide rate for females decreased by more than 50%, while it decreased by almost 34% for males. East Asia saw the largest decline of 66%, with China leading the way in the region.
However, not all regions experienced a decrease in suicide rates. Central Latin America, Andean Latin America, Tropical Latin America, and High-income North America all reported increases in suicide rates for both sexes combined. The study also highlighted the disparities between males and females when it comes to suicide. Males were more than twice as likely to die from suicide than females, but females were 49% more likely to attempt it.
The study also emphasized the importance of addressing factors that contribute to suicide risk, such as access to lethal means, violence, sexual assault, childhood trauma, poverty, and social deprivation. Removing the stigma surrounding suicide and improving access to mental health support systems are crucial steps in preventing suicide.
One notable finding from the study was the difference in suicide methods chosen by males and females. Males were more likely to use violent and lethal methods, such as firearms, while females were more likely to choose less fatal means, such as poisoning and overdosing. The study also highlighted the importance of community-based suicide prevention efforts through awareness, intervention, and support systems.
Overall, the study provides valuable insights that can help policymakers and healthcare workers develop more effective suicide prevention strategies tailored to specific populations and locations. By working together to address the root causes of suicide and provide support to those in need, we can make a positive impact in reducing the global burden of suicide.
