Suicide worldwide in 2021: Global Health Estimates

Suicide worldwide in 2021: global health estimates. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2025.

Suicide represents a critical public health challenge. Globally, 727 000 people died by suicide in 2021. Suicide is among the leading causes of death worldwide, with more deaths from suicide than from malaria, HIV/AIDS, breast cancer, or war and homicide. Suicide accounted for more than one in every 100 deaths (1.1%) in 2021.

Reducing suicide is an indicator in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) under target 3.4, and it is the only mental health indicator (3.4.2). It is also a World Health Organization (WHO) priority, included as a global target in WHO’s overall work plans from 2019 to 2028 (1, 2), and its Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan 2013–2030 (3). A comprehensive and coordinated response to suicide prevention is critical to save lives and reduce the impact on families and communities.

Keeping up-to-date records and constantly monitoring suicide is essential for effective national suicide prevention strategies and measures (4, 5). Countries should break down suicide data, at least by sex, age and method. Such disaggregated data helps to: identify which groups are most at risk, understand the scope of the problem, tailor interventions to meet the needs of specific populations, and adapt approaches to evolving trends.

Disponível Em: <https://iris.who.int/>