US suicide rates by age group, 1970-2002: an examination of recent trends.
US suicide rates have declined in recent years, reversing earlier trends. We examined suicide rates among 4 age groups from 1970 to 2002 and the factors that may have contributed to the decline. We paid particular attention to newer anti-depressants because of recent concerns and controversy about a possible association with suicidal behaviors. These trends warrant more extensive analysis of suicide rates among specific subgroups, including consideration of additional variables that may influence rates differentially. The relative contributions of depression diagnosis and treatment, postsuicide attempt care, and other contextual factors (e.g., overall economic conditions) also deserve attention. If the decline is associated with contextual factors, clarifying these associations will better inform public policy decisions and contribute to more effective interventions for preventing suicide.
McKeown
Robert E
RE
Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia 29208, USA. rmckeown@sc.edu
Cuffe
Steven P
SP
Schulz
Richard M
RM
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D017677:Age Distribution; D000368:Aged; D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000009:adverse effects; D002423:Cause of Death; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D013405:Suicide / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D013406:Suicide, Attempted / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D014481:United States / Q000453:epidemiology; D000092864:Suicide Prevention
D000928:Antidepressive Agents