Citation

Jokinen J, Mattsson P, Nordström P, Samuelsson M. Arch. Suicide Res. 2016; 20(4): 683-688.

Affiliation

c Department of Neurobiology , Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2016, International Academy of Suicide Research, Publisher Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/13811118.2016.1162239

PMID

26984396

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: Here we report the findings of a follow-up study of suicide mortality in elderly patients after an index episode of self-poisoning.

METHODS: 222 consecutive patients (143 female) aged 65 years or older (mean age 76.5 years; range 65-100) presenting at the emergency department of the Karolinska University Hospital after self-poisoning during 1994-2000, were followed up for the cause of death by January 1, 2006. Survival analysis was applied to study suicide and death risk.

RESULTS: Thirteen of the 15 suicides (87%) occurred during the first year after the index episode of self-poisoning (cumulative suicide risk 6.2%). The risk of dying of all causes during the first year was increased fourfold.

CONCLUSIONS: Self-poisoning in both elderly men and women is associated with high early suicide risk.

Language: en