ETHNIC AND GENDER DIFFERENCES IN ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION PRIOR TO DEATH AMONG THOSE WHO DIED FROM EXTERNAL CAUSES IN 2007-2018 IN THE REPUBLIC OF SAKHA (YAKUTIA)
Significance. External causes of death have long been the second leading cause of death in the total mortality among population of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) after diseases of the circularity system and the major leading cause among the working population. There is a large body of evidence on the relationship between alcohol consumption and mortality from external causes in Russia. The official statistics does register mortality from external causes associated with alcohol consumption. Impact of alcohol on mortality from external causes by ethnic group and age can be evaluated on the basis on autopsy data only. The purpose of the study was to assess ethnic and gender differences in alcohol consumption before death among those who died from external causes according to postmortem examination by the Sakha Republic Office of Chef Medical Examiner in 2007-2018. Material and Methods. A retrospective analysis of primary medical documentation of the Sakha Republic Office of Chef Medical Examiner was conducted. Results. The study included 6947 deaths from external causes in 2007-2018. In 59.4% of cases alcohol was detected by autopsy. Men accounted for 83.5% of cases. The share of Yakuts was higher than Russians and other ethnic groups. Among women with detected alcohol, the share of those of other than Russian and Yakut ethnic groups was higher. Statistically significant differences between ethnic groups were found among deaths due to assaults, deliberate self-harm, extremely low natural temperature, and exposure to smoke and fire. No significant differences across ethnic groups were observed in females. Conclusions. The Yakuts prevailed among males who died from external causes with confirmed alcohol. No statistical differences between ethnic groups among females were identified. Of all deaths from external causes under study more than a half consumed alcohol on the eve of death. The number of males with detected alcohol was five times higher compared to females. Men under alcohol intoxication are most at risk of death from external causes in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia).