Epidemiology of suicide in Brazil (1980-2000): characterization of age and gender rates of suicide.
OBJECTIVE
To describe the suicide rates in Brazil in recent decades, drawing comparisons with the worldwide epidemiological situation.


METHODS
Descriptive analyses of Brazilian suicide data, relating to the 1980-2000 period and extracted from the DATASUS database. Brazilian suicide trends were examined by age and gender.


RESULTS
The overall rate of suicide in Brazil increased 21% in 20 years. Men were found to be 2.3 to 4.0 times more likely to commit suicide than were women, and the highest suicide rates were found in the over-65 age group. The greatest increase in suicide rates (1900%) was seen in the 15-24 age range.


CONCLUSIONS
Brazilian suicide rates, although low, are consistent with the global trend toward growth. Although the highest rates are still seen among the elderly, members of the younger population have been killing themselves with ever-increasing frequency.
Mello-Santos
Carolina de
Cd
Psychiatry Institute, Universidade de São Paulo School of Medicine, SP, Brazil. caro_mello@hotmail.com
Bertolote
José Manuel
JM
Wang
Yuan-Pang
YP
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D001938:Brazil / Q000453:epidemiology; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012737:Sex Factors; D013405:Suicide / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D013997:Time Factors