Drugs and Suicide Attempt in Benin City (Nigeria) From 1991 to 2000

The incidence of suicide attempt in Benin City was determined & the agents (particularly drugs) commonly used, & risk factors for suicide attempts were identified. Records of patients seen for suicide attempts between 1991-2000 were collected. 111 cases were identified. The crude suicide attempt rate was 2.5 per 100,000. The female to male ratio was 1:1.09. Drugs were most commonly used. The age group most affected was 20-24 years. The major predisposing factors were conflict with parents & failure. Results indicate a need for stringent measures for the distribution, sale, & use of drugs commonly employed in suicide attempts. (22 refs.)