High Rates of Suicide and Attempted Suicide Using Pesticides in Nickerie, Suriname, South America

An epidemiological study in the Nickerie catchment area of Suriname revealed high rates of suicide (48 per 100,000) & attempted suicide (207 per 100,000) on average in the years 2000-2004. The high number of attempted suicides among males was particularly remarkable as was the use of pesticides. It is speculated the high incidence of suicidal behaviours reflects the very poor economic situation of the district, high levels of alcohol misuse, domestic violence, the rigidity of Hindustani culture regarding family traditions, the accessibility of means, & the lack of future perspectives. Recommendations for prevention are made. (16 refs.)