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A review of completed suicides in the Lothian and Borders Region of Scotland (1987–1991)

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Abstract

A review of 400 completed suicides encountered during a 5-year period (January 1987–December 1991) in the Lothian and Borders Region of Scotland (LBRS) was conducted. The incidence was 9.4 per 100,000 with a M:F ratio of 2.4:1; the elderly had a significantly higher (P<0.001) rate (9.9 per 100,000) compared to adolescents (3.3 per 100,000). Significantly (P<0.001) more cases occurred in the rural communities. Overall, the peak incidence was in the 45-to 54-year age group. Drug overdose was the most common (39%) method used by both sexes and in both urban and rural communities; it was the first choice for virtually all age groups, and females exhibited greater preference. Analgesics and tricyclic anti-depressants were the most common drugs used. Hanging (19.8%) was popular among the young and the elderly (>64 years) suicides. Inhalation of car exhaust (13.3%) was a rural phenomenon and was common in the 25-to 54-year age group. Jumping from heights (9.8%) was more common in the urban areas; an increasing trend in the use of this method by females was possibly emerging. Drowning (8.3%) exhibited no particular pattern and the use of firearms was relatively uncommon (2.8%). This study and any subsequent assessment of socio-medical factors associated with completed suicide in this region should provide a basis for the formulation of preventive strategies. A continuous monitoring of the trends in the LBRS is necessary.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Forensic Medicine Unit, Department of Pathology, University Medical School, Teviot Place, EH8 9AG, Edinburgh, UK

    J. O. Obafunwa & A. Busuttil

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  1. J. O. Obafunwa
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  2. A. Busuttil
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Obafunwa, J.O., Busuttil, A. A review of completed suicides in the Lothian and Borders Region of Scotland (1987–1991). Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 29, 100–106 (1994). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00805630

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