An unmatched case-control study of nearly lethal suicide attempts in Houston, Texas: research methods and measurements.

This article details the research methods and measurements used in conducting a population-based, case-control study of nearly lethal suicide attempts among persons aged 13-34 years, residing in Houston, Texas. From November 1992 to July 1995, we interviewed 153 case subjects presenting at one of three participating hospital emergency departments and used random digit dialing to identify 513 control subjects residing in the same catchment area in which cases were enlisted. Unlike most research in this area, this study was designed to extend our understanding of suicidal behavior and prevention activities beyond identification and treatment of depression and other mental illnesses. We discuss the overall strengths and weaknesses of our study design and conclude that this methodology is well suited for studying rare outcomes such as nearly lethal suicide.