Elderly Suicide Rates and Smoking: A Cross-National Study
Author Information
Author(s): Ajit Shah
Primary Institution: International School for Communities, Rights and Inclusion, University of Central Lancashire
Hypothesis
Is there a relationship between elderly suicide rates and smoking?
Conclusion
The study found no independent relationship between the national prevalence of smoking and elderly suicide rates.
Supporting Evidence
- The study analyzed data from 38 countries regarding elderly suicide rates and smoking prevalence.
- Univariate analysis showed a positive correlation between smoking and suicide rates in elderly males.
- Multivariate analysis found no independent relationship between smoking and suicide rates in elderly males.
Takeaway
The study looked at how smoking might affect suicide rates in older people, but it found that smoking doesn't seem to be linked to suicide rates in this age group.
Methodology
The study used a one-year average of five years of data on suicide rates and smoking prevalence from various countries.
Potential Biases
The study's findings may be influenced by methodological issues and the limited number of countries included.
Limitations
Data were not available from all countries, and the validity of the data was unclear; cultural factors may lead to under-reporting of suicides.
Participant Demographics
Data on elderly suicide rates and smoking prevalence were collected for males and females aged 65-74 and 75+ years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.00001
Statistical Significance
p<0.00001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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