2023 Pennsylvania Suicide Fact Sheet Final

Overview of the PA Violent Death Reporting System (PAVDRS)

The Pennsylvania Department of Health released this report based on data from the PAVDRS program, which reviewed approximately 3,000 violent deaths in Pennsylvania during 2023. Of these, 67% were suicides. The program collected data from death certificates, coroners, medical examiners, and law enforcement across 66 counties (excluding Cameron County, which reported no suicides).

Key Statistics:

• Weekly Average: An average of 37 people died by suicide each week in Pennsylvania.
• Gender Disparity: Males were over four times more likely to die by suicide than females.
• State vs. National Rates: Pennsylvania's overall suicide rate (15 deaths per 100,000 residents) was slightly higher than the national average (15 deaths per 100,000 residents).

Demographics of Suicide Victims

The report breaks down suicide victims by race, ethnicity, and age.

Race/Ethnicity and Sex:

• White, Non-Hispanic Males: Accounted for 68% of all suicide victims.
• Black, Hispanic, and Asian Populations: Represented significantly smaller percentages (6%, 4%, and 1% respectively).
• Gender Split: Across all racial categories, males accounted for the vast majority of deaths.

Age Groups:

• Highest Risk Group: The 50-59 age group had the highest percentage of suicides at 18%.
• Other High-Risk Groups: The 60-69 (17%), 40-49 (16%), and 30-39 (15%) age groups also had high percentages.
• Lowest Risk Group: The 10-19 age group had the lowest percentage at 4%.

Methods and Precipitating Circumstances

The report analyzes how suicides occurred and the circumstances leading up to them.

Leading Causes by Sex:

• Firearms: Involved in 54% of all suicides. Males were significantly more likely to use firearms (48%) compared to females (6%).
• Suffocation: The second most common method, particularly among females (5% vs. 20% for males).
• Poisoning: Occurred in 6% of cases for both males and females.

Precipitating Circumstances:

• Mental Health: More than half (52%) of victims had a diagnosed mental health problem. "Current mental health diagnosis" was the most common factor (38% male, 14% female).
• Suicidal History: 25% of victims left a suicide note, and 19% had a history of mental health treatment.
• Relationship Issues: At least 20% of people experienced an intimate partner problem before their death.
• Authority Contact: About 17% of victims were known to authorities such as law enforcement, EMS, or child protective services.