[Suicides in Austria: update on present state and recent trends].

Suicide rates exceed fatal traffic accidents two-fold in Austria but have been decreasing since 1987. Against common perceptions, approximately 75 % of all suicides in Austria are commited by men each year and while suicide attempts are more common in adolescents, completed suicides increase with age. Studies show that suicide rates are more common in rural than in urban areas and are associated with socio-economic factors. Nationwide prevention efforts should keep these epidemiological aspects in mind.