Understanding contextual factors of suicide among the Middle Eastern and North African communities in the United States
By analyzing National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS) data, the study will explore the cultural and social factors influencing suicide among both foreign- and U.S.-born MENA individuals, aiming to inform culturally tailored prevention strategies. The findings will raise awareness in MENA communities and guide policy efforts, particularly in firearm safety, and support future research on aging and mental health.
Abstract
This project aims to address a critical gap in understanding risk factors of suicide among the Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) population in the United States, particularly concerning firearm-related deaths. Suicide is a leading cause of premature death, with firearms involved in over half of these instances. Despite representing over 3.5 million Americans, MENA communities have been excluded from national health data, limiting research on their specific risk factors. The study will leverage the mortality registry the National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS) to identify and analyze suicide cases among MENA populations, focusing on both foreign- and US-born individuals. Using advanced data science methods, the project will combine quantitative data and qualitative insights from NVDRS narratives to contribute toward a comprehensive understanding of the social and cultural factors influencing suicide behavior among MENA Americans across life course. Through the established community networks, we will share findings with the local MENA community to raise awareness and inform culturally-informed suicide prevention strategies, particularly related to firearm safety. The results will guide policy efforts (i.e., Zero Suicide Initiative) and support future funding that will advance research in the field of aging and mental health.