Diferenças por sexo e região nos padrões de suicídio entre idosos no Brasil

Introduction: Suicide among the elderly is a serious public health problem, influenced by several risk factors such as isolation, grief and chronic diseases. This study analyzes the epidemiology of suicide in the elderly in Brazil, evidencing shortcomings and key areas for preventive policy development. Objective: To analyze and investigate the suicide epidemiology rates among elderly in Brazil from 2011 to 2022. Methods: This is an epidemiological, observational, retrospective and descriptive study. The population analyzed comprises elderly people aged 60 or over who died from self-inflicted injuries in Brazil, between 2011 and 2022. Results: Between 2011 and 2022, 27,415 deaths by suicide among older adults were evaluated. There was an increase of 1,344 cases during the analyzed period, corresponding to an 81.3% rise over the years. Men accounted for approximately 79.40% of suicide deaths in the elderly population. Conclusion: This study indicates a significant increase in suicide among elderly people in Brazil (2011-2022), especially among men. The implementation of public policies focused on mental health and integrated preventive strategies, such as professional training and support networks, are extremely important for reducing the alarming number of deaths in the elderly due to suicide.