Patterns of Suicide by Occupation in England and Wales: 2001-2005

This study aimed to identify the occupations with significantly high suicide rates in England & Wales in 2001-2005 & to compare these with rates from previous decades. Proportional mortality ratios & standardised mortality ratios were calculated for both men & women aged 20-64 years by their occupation. Among men, in 2001-2005 construction workers & plant & machine operatives had the greatest number of suicides. The highest proportional mortality ratios were for health professionals & agricultural workers. Among women, administrative & secretarial workers had the greatest number of suicides yet the highest proportional mortality ratios were found for health & sport & fitness occupations. (35 refs.)