A review of completed suicides in the Lothian and Borders Region of Scotland (1987-1991).

A review of 400 completed suicides encountered during a 5-year period (January 1987-December 1991) in the Lothian and Borders Region of Scotland (LBRS) was conducted. The incidence was 9.4 per 100,000 with a M:F ratio of 2.4:1; the elderly had a significantly higher (P < 0.001) rate (9.9 per 100,000) compared to adolescents (3.3 per 100,000). Significantly (P < 0.001) more cases occurred in the rural communities. Overall, the peak incidence was in the 45- to 54-year age group. Drug overdose was the most common (39%) method used by both sexes and in both urban and rural communities; it was the first choice for virtually all age groups, and females exhibited greater preference. Analgesics and tricyclic antidepressants were the most common drugs used. Hanging (19.8%) was popular among the young and the elderly (> 64 years) suicides. Inhalation of car exhaust (13.3%) was a rural phenomenon and was common in the 25- to 54-year age group. Jumping from heights (9.8%) was more common in the urban areas; an increasing trend in the use of this method by females was possibly emerging. Drowning (8.3%) exhibited no particular pattern and the use of firearms was relatively uncommon (2.8%). This study and any subsequent assessment of socio-medical factors associated with completed suicide in this region should provide a basis for the formulation of preventive strategies. A continuous monitoring of the trends in the LBRS is necessary.