HIV-Infection as a Self-Reported Risk Factor for Attempted Suicide in South Africa

This study examined variables associated with recently diagnosed HIV-infection as a self-reported suicide attempt risk factor. The study cohort consisted of 112 general hospital inpatients who attempted suicide because of HIV infection. Based on estimated national suicidal behaviour prevalence rates for South Africa, a descriptive HIV-related attempted suicide rate of 67.2 per 100,000 & an increased risk for attempted suicide of 13.33% to 18.87% were calculated. It is concluded HIV-infection can be an underestimated suicide risk factor. Effective management & prevention programmes should include as imperatives early diagnoses of HIV-related suicidal behaviour. (35 refs.) JA