Geographical differences in completed suicides in 2003 by gender in Turkey

ABSTRACT

To determine the gender differences between in terms of the method and reason of suicide. The suicidal proportions in seven regions of Turkey by sexes were compared according to three different age groups. The data were evaluated by Loglinear analysis. Suicide rates were higher in women in the region East Anatolia [P<0.01]. It was found that suicide by hanging was the most commonly used method in all the regions [P<0.001]. Committing suicide by hanging [P<0.01] and using firearms [P<0.001] were higher in men, whereas, committing suicide by taking chemical was higher in women [P<0.001]. Gender differences in suicidal behavior in this study clearly merit further research to generate information that can guide clinical practice and prevention strategies