By
Kevin Freking
Salon.comOriginally published February 1, 2013
The number of veterans who commit
suicide each day is more than 20 percent higher than the Department of Veterans
Affairs has previously estimated, but the problem doesn’t appear to be getting
worse for veterans compared to the rest of the country, according to a VA study
released Friday.
Indeed, the overall percentage of
suicides by veterans has declined in recent years. VA researchers say the trend
suggests that efforts to reduce suicide among veterans may be having an effect.
About 22 veterans committed suicide
each day in 2010. Previous estimates from the VA put the number at 18.
While much attention has been paid
to suicides by veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan, the report indicates the
problem is worse among older veterans. About 70 percent of veterans who commit
suicide are over age 50.
The latest projections from the VA
incorporate data from about two dozen states that recorded the cause of death
on death certificates. Previous estimates focused only on those getting care
from the VA’s hospitals and clinics. The department described the study as the
most comprehensive it has ever taken on the issue.
“We have more work to do, and we
will use this data to continue to strengthen our suicide prevention efforts and
ensure all veterans receive the care they have earned and deserve,” said VA
Secretary Eric K. Shinseki.
