Abstract

CAMPO-ARIAS, Adalberto  and  HERAZO, Edwin. Association between inequality and suicide rate in Colombia (1994-2013). rev.colomb.psiquiatr. [online]. 2015, vol.44, n.1, pp.28-32. ISSN 0034-7450.  https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rcp.2014.09.006.

Introduction: Income inequality is directly related to the mental health of the population. However, the relationship between income inequality and suicide rates in Colombia has still not been explored. Objective: To estimate the relationship between inequality and suicide rates in Colombia from 1994 to 2013. Methods: An ecological study was conducted, in which the correlation was estimated (Spearman) between inequality (Gini coefficient) and suicide rate between 1994 and 2013, according to official information available from the National Administrative Department of Statistics (DANE), and the National Institute of Forensic Science and Forensic Medicine. Results: A Gini coefficient between 0.53 and 0.60 (median, 0.65[interquartile range, 0.54-0.57]) was observed, and suicide rates were between 3.84 and 5.26 (median, 4.20 [4.08-4.86]). The correlation between inequality and suicide rates was positive and statistically significant (r=.70; p<.001). Conclusions: There is a positive association between economic inequality and suicide rate in Colombia. It is important to achieve greater equity in the distribution of income to reduce suicide rate in the country.

Keywords : Suicide; Inequality; Ecological studies Colombia.

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