Epidemiological Transition Hypothesis for Elderly Suicides
Author Information
Author(s): Ajit Shah
Primary Institution: Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences
Hypothesis
The curvilinear relationship between suicide rates and socio-economic status would be absent in younger age-bands and may be present in the younger age-bands closer to the older age-bands.
Conclusion
The study provides support for the epidemiological transition hypothesis for elderly suicide rates, despite being based on cross-sectional data.
Supporting Evidence
- In males aged 35-44, 45-54, and 55-64 years, a significant curvilinear relationship with GDP was found.
- In females aged 45-54 and 55-64 years, a significant curvilinear relationship with GDP was also observed.
- The relationship was absent in younger age-bands for both sexes.
Takeaway
The study looks at how suicide rates in older people relate to their country's wealth, finding that richer countries have different patterns of suicide rates as people age.
Methodology
The study examined the relationship between suicide rates in five age-bands and GDP using curve estimation regression models.
Potential Biases
Data validity may be affected by under-reporting of suicides and varying legal criteria for suicide across countries.
Limitations
The findings are based on cross-sectional data, which limits the ability to establish causality.
Participant Demographics
Data included males and females in five age-bands from 15-24 years to 55-64 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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