Patterns of self-harm presentations at a Tertiary Urban Hospital in Kenya: A retrospective 5-year study (2018-2022).

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Self-harm represents a complex and multifaceted public health issue of global significance, exerting profound effects on individuals and communities alike. It involves intentional self-poisoning or self-injury with or without the motivation to die. Although self-harm is highly prevalent, limited research has focused on the patterns and trends of self-harm among hospital populations in low- and middle-income countries, particularly within Africa. This study aims to explore the socio-demographic and clinical profile of patients presenting with self-harm and determine the common self-harm patterns at a tertiary facility in Kenya.

Methodology

We carried out a descriptive retrospective study and included patients from inpatient units and outpatient settings within th

SUBMITTER: Njoroge W 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11771914 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature