The demographics, precipitating factors, substances & methods used for deliberate self-harm in Oman are described. Data were extracted from the records of patients treated at emergency units in Muscat from 1993-1998. During the 5-year study period, 123 persons presented to hospital with injuries that resulted from deliberate self-harm. Most cases involved women, students, & the unemployed. There was a high incidence of family, marital, psychiatric, or social problems. The rate of self-injurious behaviour is low in Oman compared with other countries, including other Islamic countries. Data illustrate a rising rate & a tendency to ingest toxic doses of analgesics or non-pharmaceutical chemicals. (52 refs.) JA
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