Objective: Some evidence suggests that suicidal behaviour of Turkish migrants differs from the native population's suicidal behaviour. In most studies on this topic, however, analyses have not been based on representative populations; moreover, they partly suffer from methodical shortcomings. We have therefore analysed the suicidal behaviour of Turkish migrants in comparison to that of native Swiss citizens of Basel, Switzerland, using sound methodology. Materials and methods: In 2003 and 2004 in the framework of the WHO/EURO-Multicentre study we investigated all inhabitants of the canton Basel City over 15 years of age who got medical help subsequent to an attempt of suicide. Data of Swiss and Turkish patients were compared. Results: The suicide attempt rate among Turkish migrants was on average more than 2.7 times higher in all age groups than in Swiss citizens. The rate of women was twice as high as that of men. Young females showed the highest rates. Migrants suffered more often from disorders of the ICD-10-category F4 and more often used medication overdoses. Conclusions: Preventative efforts should concentrate especially on young Turkish females and migrants suffering from stress-related disorders. Clinical relevance: When prescribing medication, especially analgesics, lowest toxicity and smallest packaged quantity should be aimed at. © Schattauer 2011.

Analgesics Suicide attempts WHO/EURO-Multicentre study Gender differences Turkish migrants

immigrant population methodology multicenter study (topic) human suicide attempt health service Turkey (republic) groups by age prescription Adolescent male female stress Review city suicidal behavior world health organization analgesic agent Switzerland