Andrew T. Schramm, PhD; Jacey Kant, BS; Carissa W. Tomas, PhD; Arnitta R. Holliman, MS, LPC; Vaynesia T. Kendrick, MS; Hason Khan, MS; Susan Cronn, APNP, DNP; Terri A. deRoon-Cassini, PhD; Sara A. Kohlbeck, MPH
WMJ. 2023;122(4):268-271.
ABSTRACT
Background: Monitoring suicide rates is an important public health strategy to inform prevention efforts. We describe rates of adult suicide in Milwaukee County, Wisconsin, over a 19-year period.
Methods: Data on all adult suicides from 2002 through 2020 (n = 981) were obtained from the Milwaukee County Medical Examiner’s Office. Subpopulation rates were identified using the Wisconsin Interactive Statistics on Health System.
Results: Suicide rates increased significantly over the study period, with disproportionate increases among Black and Latinx residents.
Discussion: Expanded prevention efforts are needed to reverse this concerning trend. Further research should guide development of culturally relevant interventions, provide data for the equitable allocation of limited resources.