Analysis of suicide deaths and the relevant risk factors in Zhejiang province, 2002-2006

Objective　The study was conducted to analyze the epidemiological characteristics and the relevant risk factors of suicide death in Zhejiang province, so as to provide evidence for the prevention and control of suicide. Methods　The mortality surveillance data from 2002 to 2006 retrieved from the public health surveillance system in Zhejiang province were analyzed, the causes of death classified according to ICD-10, to identify the suicide mortality rates of different regions, ages and sexes, as well as their changing patterns. Results　The average suicide mortality rate was 9.28/lakh in Zhejiang province from 2002 to 2006. The rate in rural areas (11.27/lakh) was higher than that in urban ones (5.72/lakh), and that in male (10.33/lakh) higher than female (8.19/lakh). The suicide mortality rate increased along with the age, as it reached 34.69/lakh in people over 65 years of age. Taking pesticide and hanging oneself were the predominant ways people committed suicide, which accounted for 80.50%. Farmers, as the major group of suicide committer, accounted for 83.59%. About 55.63% of suicide occurred in spring and summer; and 40.60% families had a store of pesticides, whereas 25.32% of them deposited the hazardous substances freely. Conclusion　The suicide mortality rate in Zhejiang province was under the national average level. Higher attention should be paid to the elderly and the mid-aged, particularly in rural areas, to prevent suicidal behaviors. Comprehensive intervention should include pesticide management, social security support, and publicity and health education.