Pattern Analysis of Suicide Mortality Surveillance Data in Urban South Africa

The typical circumstances of suicide in post-apartheid urban South Africa are described. Data comprise suicide cases from all urban municipalities where an injury surveillance system has full coverage. Typical patterns were identified by means of a classification technique applied to 8 variables descriptive of the events, their victims, & the suicide level of the cities. Six suicide mortality patterns were identified, most being ethnic-specific & each associated with particular suicide methods. Preventive strategies should target local communities & specific population subgroups, & be appropriate & responsive to their sociocultural needs. (48 refs.)