Abstract:
Background:
Suicide is a global problem. It is an important cause of death across the
human lifespan. In addition to the impact on individuals who attempt and die from suicide, the powerful ripple effect that suicide has on families, friends, communities and countries is far-reaching. However it is a neglected public health issue in middle and low-income countries especially practically in Ethiopia.
Objective: The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence and socio-demographic
correlates of suicide among patients visiting adult emergency outpatient department at Adama Hospital medical College
Methods: Hospital based cross sectional study method was conducted from February 1-30/2018 involving 275 patients visiting EOPD by face to face interview using structured questionnaire. Data were summarized using different summery formats and binary logistic regression was computed to determine factors that are related to suicidal ideation and attempt.
Result: A total of 275 subjects were participated with a response rate of100%.The
prevalence of suicidal ideation were 18.9% [males=53.7%, females=46.3%] and the prevalence of suicidal attempt were 12.4% [males=47.1%, females=52.9%]. Being, harmfully using alcohol, and having family history of suicide are seemed to be associated with suicidal Ideation. Being drinking alcohol, having mental illness and having family history of suicide were positively associated with suicidal attempt; but having mental illness was not associated with suicidal ideation. Seventy five percent of males used hanging as a method of attempting suicide. But poisoning was preferred by females (63.6%). Thirty-nine patients (13.7%) were identified to be at increased risk of committing suicide; of whom18 (46.1 %) had imminent risk and 21(53.9%) were found to be at a potential risk.
Conclusion: The prevalence of suicide ideation and attempt were high and were
associated with preventable risk factors which show a significant health issue among emergency visiting patients that requires a great emphasis.
