Suicide kills more than 10,000 people every year in Bangladesh

This study set out to explore the epidemiology of suicide in Bangladesh. A cross-sectional study was carried out during 2003 (January to December). This encompassed a population of 819,429 of all age-groups and sexes. Data was collected by face-to-face interviews at a household level. Suicide was found to be the leading cause of death by injury in the age group of 10-19 years. Adolescent females (10-19 year age group) were found to be the most vulnerable. Overall, the suicide rate was 7.3 (95% CI 5.6-9.5) per 100,000 per year and the highest rate was found in the age group of 60+ years. The rate of suicide was found to be 17-fold higher (95% CI 5.36-54.64) in the rural population, compared to urban rates. Adolescent suicide rate in rural areas was 20.1 (95% CI 12.6-31.7) per 100,000. The rate was 17.7 (95% CI 8.6-34.9) and 22.7(95% CI 12-42) among males and females respectively. Poisoning was found as the most frequent method of suicide. The majority of the suicide victims were found to be very poor and illiterate. Suicide is a major public health problem in Bangladesh. Age, place of residence, economic status and literacy were the major associating factors related to suicide. Adolescents, elderly and those residing in rural regions were the most vulnerable groups.