Risk Factors for Male and Female Suicide Decedents Ages 15-64 in the United States: Results From the 1993 National Mortality Followback Survey

The association of certain risk factors with suicide among males & females age 15-64 & the variation in the associations by gender was examined. A case-control study was constructed from the 1993 National Mortality Followback Survey in the United States. Marijuana use, excessive alcohol consumption, & access to firearms increased the odds of suicide for both genders. Depressive symptomatology was common in female decedents & only associated with older age among male decedents. The interactions of mental health service use with demographic factors suggested possible gender differences in suicide risk associated with severity of mental disorders & the likelihood of treatment seeking. (51 refs.)