Non-suicidal self-injury among young Algerian men: prevalence and public health determinants

Background

Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is a major indicator of psychological distress and a relevant public health concern among young adults. However, data from North African populations remain limited. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of NSSI and identify associated factors among young Algerian men, with implications for public health surveillance and prevention.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2024 among a randomly selected sample of 1,013 men aged 19–30 years undergoing mandatory pre-conscription medical examinations. NSSI was identified through systematic clinical examination during full-body physical assessment. Sociodemographic, behavioral, and psychiatric variables were collected. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed, and adjusted odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were reported.

Results

The prevalence of NSSI was 4.4% (95% CI: 3.3–5.9), corresponding to 45 identified cases. In multivariable analysis, lower educational level was significantly associated with NSSI (OR = 3.32; 95% CI: 1.72–6.41). Tobacco use (OR = 5.66; 95% CI: 1.29–24.76) and alcohol consumption (OR = 6.03; 95% CI: 3.09–11.79) showed strong positive associations. A history of psychiatric disorders was also significantly associated with NSSI (OR = 2.47; 95% CI: 1.03–5.91). The model demonstrated good fit (Hosmer–Lemeshow p = 0.60) and overall statistical significance (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

NSSI among young Algerian men represents a relevant but under-recognized public health issue. The observed prevalence is lower than that reported in Europe, the United States, and East Asia, potentially reflecting methodological strengths, particularly direct clinical assessment during mandatory examinations, which reduces underreporting bias.

Findings highlight the importance of behavioral risk factors and psychiatric vulnerability, supporting the need for early detection and integrated prevention strategies targeting young adult populations.

Key messages

• Population-based studies on non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) are essential to strengthen epidemiological knowledge and inform evidence-based public health planning and decision-making.

• NSSI is strongly associated with modifiable behavioral and psychosocial risk factors, highlighting the need for early identification and targeted preventive interventions in young men.