This article examines a noted increase in the rates of suicide among males in Western countries. This article analyzes age-specific & age-standardized suicide rates in Italy from 1986 to 1996. The results of the study were that suicide rates have remained relatively stable from 1986 to 1996. In the 15-24 & 25-44 year old groups of males the suicide rate has indeed progressively risen. The study concludes that young men have a high risk of suicide, & that there is a need for age-specific suicide prevention programs. (22 refs.) (AK)