Profile of Suicidal Deaths in Females Brought to a Tertiary Care Centre in North Bangalore

Abstract

Introduction: Suicide is an important health hazard across the world. The SDR (Suicidal Death Rate) observed in Indian females is over three times higher than the rate expected globally for regions with similar socio-demographic profile.
Objectives: This study is aimed at analysing the pattern, probable motives, and socio-demographic factors of female suicidal deaths across all age groups subjected for autopsy to the Forensic Medicine department, M.S Ramaiah Medical College.
Materials and Methods: Detailed information regarding the deceased and the circumstances of death were collected from the police and relatives by a standard proforma questionnaire. Data was analysed using computer software, Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0.
Results:Total of 93 cases of female suicides were autopsied in the study period, and the most common age group observed was 21-30 years (30%), commonly educated up to high school (32.2%), majority of cases falling within class IV socio-economic status with 38.7% cases (Modified Kuppuswamy’s classification). Married women comprised 41.9% cases. Hanging(76.3%) was the most often used method, commonly occurring at the time periods of 6AM-12PM and 6PM-12AM with 29 cases (31.18%) each. Frequently motivated by monetary reasons with 18.27% and mental illnesses accounting for16.12%.
Conclusion: The increasing suicide rate creates a challenging obstacle for public health personnel. This study is a step toward a larger multi-centre study where deeper analysis and necessary interventions can be postulated.