Suicide in schizophrenia: the Iowa Record Linkage Study.

Of 688 schizophrenics admitted to a psychiatric hospital over a 10-year period, 14 committed suicide. The numbers of suicides for both males and females significantly exceeded expected rates. Most of these deaths (71%) occurred within 2 years of discharge. Although more men than women committed suicide, women were found to be at relatively greater risk for suicide. Male suicides were significantly older than female suicides. Relevant literature is reviewed and implications for treatment and further research are discussed.