[Suicides and attempted suicides at the Jeanne Ebori Foundation, Libreville (Gabon)]

From January 1982 to April 1985, 39 cases of suicides and 208 attempted suicides have been recorded. The importance of suicide is nearly similar whatever sex it is. However, we have found, for attempted suicide, a higher ratio for women compared to men (3 for 1). This aggressive behaviour seemed to be specific for young adults. The commonest method used is the ingestion of a medical drug, mainly chloroquine. The confusion within the family and community, the breaking down of social cultures which until recently diverted aggressive behaviour and played a prophylactic role for all antisocial behaviours, are the main reasons for the increase in suicides and attempted suicides.