Trends in Suicide Rate for England and Wales 1975–80

The suicide rate in England and Wales has increased annually in the period 1975 to 1980. The increase has occurred in both sexes, but has been greater for males. There has been a decrease in suicide by poisoning with solid or liquid substances (including overdoses) and a marked increase in poisoning by vehicle exhaust gas. The rate of hanging, strangulation and suffocation has also increased substantially: taken together (ICD E953) these now form the most common method of suicide in males. Statistics for 'undetermined' and 'accidental' death have been examined, and indicate that the increase in the official suicide rate represents a real increase in suicides during this period.