Correlated risk factors for suicidal ideation in aboriginal Southern Taiwanese women of childbearing age

Suicide and non-accidental poisoning are Two important causes of death of female aborigines in Taiwan. The purpose of this study was to estimate the prevalence of suicidal ideation and then to identify factors relating to this for Female aborigines of childbearing age. Using stratified random sampling 212 female aborigines, aged between 20 and 49, were recruited into this study. Participants were interviewed at their homes by trained interviewers who used a structured questionnaire. The Suicidal Ideation Screening Questionnaire (SIS-Q) was used to help predict which participants would be more likely to have suicidal ideation. The prevalence rate of suicidal ideation within the previous 12 months was 20.3% (95% CI 14.9-25.7%). Significant related factors of suicidal ideation, which were analyzed by multiple logistic regression, revealed that women suffering depressive mood, living within a extended family, and perceiving poor health status were more likely to have suicidal ideation. Results generated from this study may be used, in primary care, for guidance as to how to prevent suicide. Outreach community programs incorporating a valid and sensitive screening instrument, such as the SIS-Q, should be implemented to help prevent suicides in aboriginal communities.