Evolving sex differences in suicide mortality by age in Spain, 2000–2023: a nationwide trend analysis

INTRODUCTION: Sex disparities in suicide mortality persist worldwide, with male rates 2-4 times higher than female rates, but age-specific patterns over time remain insufficiently understood. AIM: To examine long-term trends in suicide mortality in Spain (2000-2023), focusing on sex-specific and age-specific differences and the evolution of the male-to-female suicide rate ratio. METHODS: We conducted a longitudinal study using national mortality data from the Spanish Statistical Office. Crude and age-adjusted suicide rates were calculated by sex and age group. Joinpoint regression assessed temporal trends and male-to-female rate ratios across 15 age groups. RESULTS: The overall age-adjusted rate showed no significant change (average annual percent change: -0.4%), with a significant decrease among men (-0.7%) and stable overall rates among women, while increases were observed in selected female age groups. Rates increased with age, particularly among men aged 70+. The male-to-female ratio widened with age, reaching 10.74 in the 95+ group, but narrowed over the study period in four age groups (15-29, 50-54, 75-79, 80-84), mainly due to declining male rates. CONCLUSION: Despite modest changes over time, marked age-related sex disparities persist. Older men remain the highest-risk group, while increases among women in midlife warrant targeted prevention.