Epidemiology of suicidal intent in children under 18 attended in Los Angeles children's hospital in Pasto, Colombia

Abstract

Introduction: Suicide Attempt is a public health problem. Despite preventive programs, figures increase, so it is necessary to know its behavior in the pediatric population and in the region. Objective: To characterize clinically and socio-demographically children under 18 who presented suicidal intent and were attended at Los Angeles children's hospital. Materials and methods: An observational descriptive study was conducted with children under 18, who presented suicidal intent and were hospitalized between 2016 and 2017. Results: Data from 151 patients were analyzed. A prevalence of 0.8 cases per thousand incomes was found. 2% (3) died after Paraquat® intake. The average age was 14.7. 74% (112) were girls. 61.6% (58) of the population with suicidal intent had a dysfunctional family environment. Academic problems and depression were presented with high frequency. Cutting, tricyclic antidepressants consumption, acetaminophen and organophosphorus were found among the main mechanisms of suicidal intent. Conclusions: The prevalence of suicidal intent grows rapidly with respect to records reported in previous years in the same institution. This fact may reflect problems in health programs aimed at promoting adolescent mental health.