Suicide epidemiology and characteristics among young Iranians at poison ward, Loghman-Hakim Hospital (1997-2007).

BACKGROUND Suicide is a critical public health problem. In developing countries, the highest suicide rate is found in young adults with remarkable increasing rate. In this study, we have evaluated the epidemiology and characteristics of 8-16-year-old individuals who attempted suicideand were hospitalized in Loghman-Hakim Hospital, Tehran, Iran from 1997 to 2007. METHODS A total of 6414 hospitalized patients, ages 8-16, who attempted suicide and were residents of Loghman-Hakim Hospital were investigated. We performed a retrospective chart review to study the characteristics of cases in a 10-year period by review of psychiatric and medical records. RESULTS Out of 6414 patients, 22.6% were males, 5978 patients were 12-16 years old and the rest were aged 8-12 years. During the 10-year period, suicides showed a rising trend among adults, while in children no significant increase was detected. Communicative disorders were the most common underlying risk factors, particularly in females. One patient out of five cases had psychiatric disorders, of which adjustment disorders were the most predominant. A remarkable peak in suicides was observed in May and July, while winter had the highest suicide rate among seasons. CONCLUSIONS Suicide due to drug overdose is higher in females than males in young population. This increasing trend is a psychiatric concern and should be resolved by improving mental and public health.