Aspectos epidemiológicos del suicidio consumado en la provincia de Cádiz (1999-2003)

Abstract

In this paper we report the incidence of suicide committed in the province of Cádiz during 1999-2003. The rate of suicides per 100.000 inhabitants was 4.63 with a proportion of 4.37 men for every woman. The marital status of those of either sex who committed suicide is analyzed, as well as their average age. Significant differences of age was found between men (51.36 years) and women (56.22 years). The distribution of suicides by month and day of the week is also analyzed, the greatest incidence of suicides occurring during the winter months (December, January, February) and, in general, on Saturday. Hanging, the most employed method (46.38%), followed by jumping from a height (25.09%) and the use of toxic substances (11.78%). 55.89% of those who committed suicide had a psychiatric history, having been diagnosed a depressive syndrome in 63.94% of the cases. 14.82% of suicide victims had made previous suicide attempts.