Their study of suicides among adults aged 55 and older reveals higher-than-average rates for people born in August and September. In addition, people who killed themselves by violent means were significantly more likely to have been born in the summer.

The findings, by researchers at Hollins Park Hospital in Warrington, add to existing evidence that season of birth may be an important factor in health during adulthood. Previous studies have indicated summer babies may be more prone to eating disorders, depression and dyslexia, while autumn and winter babies may be at relatively higher risk of schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease.

Lead study author Alec Pemberton, a specialist in psychiatry for the elderly, told Reuters Health there is no clear explanation for the link between suicides and season of birth.

"Maybe it's related to fluctuations in levels of serotonin (a mood-related chemical in the brain). But the other thing is that month of birth is also related to social factors, such as where a child is in their schooling."

For example, he explained, "if you're the oldest one in the class, you may be more outgoing and confident and less likely to suffer depression."

Pemberton and his colleagues analysed 12 years' worth of public health records and coroner data in North Cheshire, UK.

They identified 152 suicides among people aged 55 and older and compared the records with a group of men and women the same age who died of natural causes.

The analysis revealed a significant link between birth date and the likelihood of suicide.

Overall, there was an increased risk of suicide for people born in August.

Among men, those born in August, September or January had suicide rates that were "much higher...than would be expected by chance," according to the researchers. In addition, the investigators found that those who died by "violent means" were more likely to have been born in the summer, particularly women who killed themselves by hanging.

The findings were presented at a recent meeting of the Royal College of Psychiatrists in London.

But before doctors can start considering birth date a possible predictor of mental illness, Pemberton stressed, the findings need to be backed up by larger studies in the general population.

He noted that other recent research has found that people displaying violent suicidal behaviour may have low levels of a chemical marker for serotonin. "If we can find the mechanism behind this, it might indicate that serotonin is important in certain types of depression or impulsive behaviour," he said.

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Copyright 2002 Reuters Limited. Click for Restrictions. Published on: 07/19/2001 Updated on: 07/23/2001

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