The Relationship of Body Weight to Suicide Risk Among men and Women: Results From the US National Health Interview Survey Linked Mortality File

This study examined the effects of body mass index on suicide risk among American men & women. Data was analyzed from the combined 1986-1994 National Health Interview Surveys linked to the 1986-2002 Multiple Cause of Death file. Survival analysis indicated that for each 5 kilograms/meter squared increase in body mass index, the risk of suicide decreased by 18% & 24% for men & women, respectively. Further research is needed to examine the observed association between body weight & suicide risk into its componenent pathways & mechanisms. (13 refs.)