Epidemiological profile of suicide in Brazil from 2007 to 2017

Abstract

Suicide is a public health problem that ranks among the twenty leading causes of death worldwide.
This study aims to describe the epidemiological profile of suicide cases in Brazil from 2007 to 2017,
to recognize local particularities and support protection and prevention actions. Data were obtained
from the DataSUS Mortality Information System, which recorded a total of 113,483 cases of suicide in
the period, with an increase in the mortality rate, especially among the older adults aged over 80 years,
men and single. The most common methods were hanging, firearms and pesticides. The highest mortality
rates in the period analyzed were found in the Southern region, followed by the Midwest. The highest
percentage growth was observed in the North and Northeast regions. Considering this information,
public policies that adopt preventive measures must be intensified to reduce suicide rates in Brazil.