Correlates of Alaska Native Fatal and Nonfatal Suicidal Behaviors 1990-2001

Factors correlated with suicidal behaviour in a predominantly Alaska Native region of Alaska are described, & the correlates relating to fatal & nonfatal suicide behaviours in this indigenous population are distinguished. Suicide data from the region (1990-2001) are aggregated & compared to 2000 American census data using chi-squared tests. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify predictors of suicide behaviours. Suicidal behaviours were significantly more commmon among single, unemployed Alaska natives who had not completed high school. In multivariable analysis, male gender, age 25 & older, firearms, & substance abuse history were each associated with suicide death. (49 refs.)