Suicide in Mato Grosso, 2015-2021

before and during COVID-19

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the epidemiological profile of fatal self-inflicted injuries in Mato Grosso between 2015 and 2021 and the influence of COVID-19 on this scenario. Methods: Descriptive epidemiological study on suicides in Mato Grosso from 2015 to 2021, using data from DATASUS. Results: A total of 1,512 suicide deaths were recorded. In the seven years evaluated, Mato Grosso exceeded national figures in four years. In 2020, there were 7.4 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants, a 6.9% increase compared to 2019, while Brazil's increase was only 1.5%. Until 2020, most victims were aged 20 to 29 years, changing to 30 to 39 years in 2021. Prevalence was higher among men, and singles predominated. The most common methods included hanging, strangulation, and suffocation. The most significant increase was in auto-intoxication, with a growth of 58.3% from 2015 to 2020 and 133% from 2015 to 2021. Between 2020 and 2021, there was an additional increase of 47.4%. The use of sharp and blunt objects also rose, with increases of 833.3% from 2015 to 2020 and 1100% from 2015 to 2021. Between 2020 and 2021, the rate of this suicide method increased by 28.6%. Conclusion: The growth during the pandemic period was similar to other years, except for the methods used. More effective actions are needed to mitigate suicides among young adults in Mato Grosso, especially focusing on the presented characteristics.