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A Call for Preventing Suicide by Hanging from Ceiling Fans: An Interdisciplinary Research Agenda
Kishan Kariippanon1, Coralie J Wilson2, Timothy J McCarthy3
1School of Health & Society, University of Wollongong, Wollongong NSW 2522, Australia. kishan@uow.edu.au.
Suicides by hanging, particularly from ceiling fans, remain a concern. This research proposes a three-stage plan to study and mitigate this suicide method through surveillance, design modification, and evaluation.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Suicidology
- Engineering
Background:
- Hanging is a prevalent suicide method globally, with no decline observed despite falling overall suicide rates.
- Research on specific hanging methods, such as suicide by ceiling fan, is limited.
- Ceiling fans present a unique challenge due to their common household presence and potential lethality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the under-researched issue of suicide by ceiling fan.
- To propose a comprehensive research agenda for developing safer ceiling fan designs.
- To reduce suicide deaths associated with this specific method.
Main Methods:
- Stage 1: Surveillance to determine the scope of suicide by ceiling fan.
- Stage 2: Application of engineering product development to modify ceiling fans, reducing their lethal capacity.
- Stage 3: Evaluation of modified fans for safety and effectiveness in reducing suicide in community settings.
Main Results:
- The study outlines a structured, multi-stage research plan.
- It details the progression from problem identification to solution development and testing.
- The proposed methodology integrates public health surveillance with engineering principles.
Conclusions:
- A systematic approach is needed to address suicide by ceiling fan.
- Modifying product design offers a potential avenue for suicide prevention.
- Further research and development are crucial for implementing effective safety measures.
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