Related Experiment Videos
Pattern of suicides in Ile-Ife, Nigeria
1Department of Morbid Anatomy and Forensic Medicine, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital, Ile-Ife.
West African Journal of Medicine
|April 2, 2002
Summary
This study analyzed autopsy findings in suicide cases over 11 years. It found suicides were more common in males, particularly in their third decade, often using specific methods like Gammalin 20 and Dane guns.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Pathology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Suicides are often underreported in developing nations.
- Depressive disorders, a key suicide driver, are increasingly recognized in Africa, often presenting with somatization.
- Sudden deaths of undetermined etiology are a recognized issue.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate patterns of autopsy findings in completed suicide cases.
- To analyze suicide demographics (age, sex) and methods used.
- To provide data on suicide incidence in Ife over an 11-year period.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of autopsy reports over 11 years and 2 months.
- Data collection on age, sex, and methods of suicide.
- Calculation of suicide incidence per population.
Main Results:
- Suicide incidence in Ife was 0.4 per 100,000 population.
- Males showed a higher incidence (3.6:1 ratio).
- The majority of victims were in their third decade; Gammalin 20 and Dane guns were common methods, with guns primarily used on the head and neck (76%).
Conclusions:
- Suicide patterns in Ife reveal a male predominance and specific demographic trends.
- The study highlights the importance of forensic pathology in understanding suicide.
- Findings underscore the need for mental health awareness and intervention in the region.