Blacks In US Have Suicide Attempt Rate Higher Than Previously Reported

Medical News Today

New research indicates that blacks in the U.S. have a lifetime prevalence of attempted suicide of about 4 percent, a rate comparable with the general population, but higher than previous estimates, according to a study in the November 1 issue of JAMA. Among all Americans, suicide is the 11th leading cause of death and the rates range across specific demographic subgroups. In recent years, suicide and nonfatal suicidal behavior have emerged as crucial health issues for blacks, particularly among older adolescents and young adults, according to background information in the article. Although suicide has traditionally been viewed as a problem that affects more whites, the rates of suicide among blacks have increased significantly since the mid 1980s. Lack of data on the lifetime prevalence and age at onset of suicidal thoughts, plans, and attempts among blacks in the United States have limited the development and evaluation of interventions to reduce suicide among black Americans. See: Click here: Blacks In US Have Suicide Attempt Rate Higher Than Previously Reported