Birth Cohort Analysis of Changing Suicide Risk by Sex and Age in Sweden l952-l981

Data from the Causes of Death Register comprising suicides occurring in 1952-81 among persons born in 1877-1966 were studied. Analysis of linear regression of cumulative suicide incidence in successive birth cohorts yielded a shift toward younger ages & a general increase in female suicide risk. Risk in the 20-24 male age group increased 3.6 times. Male to female risk sex ratio has decreased for those older than 45, while it has increased among young adults. Needs explanatory studies.