Perinatal circumstances and risk of offspring suicide

Abstract

BackgroundA higher risk of suicide has been associated with low birth weight in one study, but not yet replicated. Higher birth order has been associated with self-harm, but not with suicide.AimsTo examine the relationship between perinatal circumstances and subsequent young adult suicide in Scotland.MethodUsing linked data from the Scottish Morbidity Record and Scottish death records, a birth cohort of 1 061 830 people was followed-up for a mean of 25.1 years. Data were analysed using Cox regression.ResultsHigher maternal parity, younger maternal age (<25 years), non-professional parental occupations and low birth weight (<2500 g) were independently associated with higher suicide risk of offspring as young adults. There was no independent association with gestational age.ConclusionsOur findings provide support for the influence of maternal circumstance and foetal experience on subsequent mental health.