EPA-1753 – Completed Suicide in Bavaria in Relation to Nationality, Age, Gender and Administrative District

Abstract

Background

Over the last years, the bavarian population, which was relatively homogeneous, has become increasingly culturally diverse. Many migrants to Bavaria have been exposed to extreme stress before, during, and after migration, with potential effects on their physical and mental health. Health problems and suicide rates are of great public health concern. This study compares descriptively frequencies of attempted suicide among native germans and immigrants in Bavaria.

Methods

We investigated official data on completed suicide in Bavaria in relation to nationality (german/non-german), age, gender and administrative district. Data were extracted from the Bavarian Police Mortality Database (2009–2010) and were analysed using multilevel models to investigate individual and regional factors and the relevance of nonspecific regional heterogeneity.

Results

After adjustments for age, sex and year, nationality (German vs. non-German) was significant associated with completed suicide in most models considered. We could not find significant regional heterogeneity.

Conclusions

Further research is needed regarding the influence of nationality and migration status on suicidal behaviour using multilevel models.