A brief analysis of suicide methods and trends in Virginia from 2003 to 2012

Abstract

Background: The objective is to analyze and compare Virginia suicide data from 2003 to 2012 to US suicide data. Methods: Suicide trends by method, age, gender, and race were obtained from Virginia's Office of the Chief Medical Examiner's annual reports. Results: Similar to US suicide rates, suicide rates in Virginia increased between 2003 and 2012 from 10.9/100,000 people to 12.9/100,000 people. The most common methods were firearm, asphyxia, and intentional drug overdose, respectively. The increase in asphyxia (r=0.77, P≤0.01) and decrease in CO poisoning (r=-0.89, P≤0.01) were significant. Unlike national trends, intentional drug overdoses decreased (r=-0.55, P=0.10). Handgun suicides increased (r=0.61, P=0.06) and are the most common method of firearm suicide. Hanging was the most common method of asphyxia. Helium suicides also increased (r=0.75, P=0.05). Middle age females and males comprise the largest percentage of suicide. Unlike national data, the increase in middle age male suicides occurred only in the 55-64-year-old age group (r=0.79, P≤0.01) and decreased in the 35-44-year-old age group (r=-0.60, P=0.07) and 10-14-year-old age group (r=-0.73, P=0.02). Suicide in all female age ranges remained stable. Caucasians represent the highest percentage of suicide. Conclusion: There has been a rise in suicide in Virginia and suicide rates and trends have closely resembled the national average albeit some differences. Suicide prevention needs to be enhanced.