AIM: The aim of this study was to analyse the relationship between suicide rates and economic development within the theoretical framework of epidemiological transition.
RESULT: A weak positive correlation was found between suicide rates and GNP per capita in both sexes for all ages.
DISCUSSION: According to previous studies, there is a clear decline in deaths due to unintentional injuries with improved economic conditions. This example of a man-made disease that declines during the fourth stage is in agreement with the theory of epidemiological transition. However, our results found the opposite pattern for deaths due to intentional self-inflicted injury.
CONCLUSION: Mortality rates due to unintentional and intentional self-inflicted injury show deviating patterns from an epidemiological transition perspective.
Language: en
Keywords
Cross-Sectional Studies; Economics; Female; Global Health; Humans; Linear Models; Male; Suicide