Suicide Trends and Characteristics Among Persons in the Guarani Kaiowa and Nandeva Communities – Mato Gross do Sul, Brazil, 2000-2005

This article presents data on suicide rates among indigenous peoples in Mato Grosso do Sul, a state in southwest Brazil. Results of a study suggest the suicide rate among Guaran’ was 19 times higher than the national rate in Brazil & 10 times higher than the rate in Mato Grosso do Sul. Suicide disproportionately affected Guaran’ adolescents & young adults. To decrease suicide rates, research & prevention programs were started & the Guaran’ initiated measures to increase their economic self-sufficiency. An editorial comment addresses limitations in the research methodology. (10 refs.)