Characteristics of suicides in Navarra by gender (2010-2013)

Abstract

Objective. To determine the number of suicides and the main social and demographic characteristics, time frames and methods involved during the period 2010-2013 in Navarra by gender.

Methods. A study of the Electronic Clinical Records provided by Navarra’s Healthcare Service in which suicides in Navarra are detailed.

Results. One hundred and eighty individuals committed suicide. The number of suicides remained stable: 41 in 2010, 51 in 2011 and 44 in 2012 and 2013. Seventy-five point four percent were males (n=136) and 24.6 % (n=44) were females. In the 13 to 26 age group, 12 (92.3%) out of 13 suicides were committed by males. In terms of employment status, 49.3% (n=70) were pensioners.  The highest rate of suicides was reached in summer (n=71) and spring (n=39). Monday was the day with the highest rate of suicides (n=37) and the time period between 8:00 and 12:00 hours was when the highest number of suicides (n=80) took place. The most usual ways of committing suicide were hanging (n=80), falling from a height (n=41) and pharmacological overdose (n=23). Males used violent methods more frequently. It is necessary to highlight the fact that in some of the sociodemographic characteristics there was up to 60% of cases without enough information.

Conclusion. The results obtained show some specific features of the phenomenon of suicide in Navarra that should be considered for its prevention. Furthermore, the implementation of effective protocols of data collection is recommended to develop prevention strategies.