EPIDEMIOLOGY OF SELF-INFLICTED VIOLENCE AMONG INDIGENOUS PEOPLES AND OTHER MINORITY POPULATIONS IN THE AMAZON: A TEN-YEAR RETROSPECTIVE HISTORICAL SERIES

Abstract

Introduction: Self-inflicted injuries are characterized by acts of self-mutilation, ranging from mild forms such as scratches, bites, and small cuts to more severe forms such as loss of limbs and even death. Among indigenous peoples in the Amazon, it presents high rates, frequently involving hanging. Objective: To conduct an epidemiological study on the epidemiology of self-inflicted violence among minority groups, focusing on indigenous peoples. Methodology: This is a historical series of the last 10 years (2016 to 2025) of retrospective, publicly available information. Results: From January 2016 to December 2025, 67,282 cases of self-inflicted violence were reported in the Amazon, of which 15,473 (22.9%) were among population groups considered minorities (indigenous people = 14%, white people 6%, black people 2%, and Asian people 1%). The locations where these occurrences were recorded were in urban areas (66%), rural areas (25%), and peri-urban areas (8%). The years with the most notifications were between 2020 and 2023, possibly due to the stress caused by lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the pediatric population, the majority of cases were in the 10-14 age group (24%). Among the geriatric population, those over 60 years of age also had a significant number of cases (4%). The cities in Amazonas with the highest prevalence rates were Envira, Carauari, and Eirunepé. However, the cities with the highest mortality rates (suicide) were Amaturá, Barreirinha, and São Gabriel da Cachoeira. Conclusion: There is greater vulnerability in populations with social disadvantages, especially indigenous peoples.