Suicide mortality in Colombia

Abstract

Objetive. To describe the main characteristics of mortality by suicide in the Colombian population in theperiod of1992-2001.
Methodology. A descriptive study ofmortality by suicide in Colombia in period 1992-2001 was made. The universe was the totality of deaths classified by the ICD-I0 within the X85-Y09. The source of deaths and population data is official information of the National Administrative Department of Statistics (DANE, in spanish), that has as primary source death certificates.
Results. Between the years 1992 to 2001,16.047 suicides were registered in Colombia. The series had a global rate average of 3.9 per 100.000. Men contributed to 77% of the cases. People between 15 to 34 years contributed with one of each two deaths by this cause. In the momhs of  january, May and December the greater nWllber ofevents appeared. The firing with firearm was the suicidal mechanism used by 36% of the cases.
Conclusion. As much by its magnitude as by its tendency to increase and the fact affect more young people, the suicide in Colombia is an important public health problem. It's necessary to articulate prevention programs, prioritizing the population of adolescents with risk profiles.