The National Institute of Statistics publishes the provisional data on deaths by cause for the year 2024

The National Statistics Institute (INE) released today, June 23, the provisional mortality data by cause of death corresponding to the year 2024.

In this preliminary release, suicides are recorded as the second leading cause of external mortality, with a total of 3,846 deaths—representing a 6.6% decrease compared to the previous year. Accidental falls remain the leading cause of external death, with 4,407 fatalities, reflecting a 6% increase relative to the most recent figure.

Disaggregated by sex, 2,834 men and 1,012 women died by suicide in the past year.

While the observed decrease in suicide-related deaths may be interpreted as a positive development, it is essential to emphasize that the figures are provisional. The INE notes that, in the case of deaths due to external causes, data consolidation periods are extended due to the need for autopsy procedures. Consequently, current figures may be underestimated.

Provisional estimates for 2023 indicated 3,952 suicides, whereas the finalized data reflected a total of 4,116 cases. Further updates are expected, and the final consolidated dataset is anticipated to be published in December of this year.

The complete dataset is available here.