An epidemiological profile of elderly suicides in Hong Kong

Author(s): Chi, I., Yu, K. K.

Journal/Book: Int J Geriat Psychiat. 1998; 13: Baffins Lane, Chichester, W Sussex PO19 1UD, England. John Wiley & Sons Ltd. 631-637.

Abstract: Suicide rates in Hong Kong increased with age, and the highest suicide rate occurred among the oldest age groups. Hong Kong has one of the highest elderly suicide rates in the world. The elderly suicide rate was four to five times above the average. Furthermore, gender differences were observed among different marital status groups. For example, single males had a much higher rate than single females and married males had a higher rate than their widowed counterparts. The suicide rate for an economically inactive person was six times higher than for an active one. Jumping has become increasingly common and seems to substitute for other methods of suicide. Winter months and the Chinese New Year period had the lowest suicide occurrence. Some explanations are given.

Note: Article Yip PSF, Univ Hong Kong, Dept Stat, Hong Kong, HONG KONG

Keyword(s): elderly suicide; economic activity; marital status; methods of suicide; SEX

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