Suicidal deaths by burns in females of reproductive age: 2 yr study

Abstract

Abstract Background In India, deaths related to burns are more common in women than in men. Fire is easily available weapon used by female for suicide. Most burns happen in low- and middle-income countries. Aim The current study was conducted with an objective to find out Socio demographic profile & the causes of suicidal deaths in females by burns and the various reasons associated with them. Study design A prospective study for 2 year period done in tertiary care health center in metropolitan city. Results In this study (67.19%) victims belonged to lower middle class, Hindu (75%). Housewives (71.88%), Married (70.31%) females, educated upto high school (34.38%), belonged to urban area (54.69%). Age group 14–25 years was more common affected (59.38%), married since more than 7 years (28.13%), victims survived for period of 1–7 days (57.81%). Suicidal burns were most commonly by self & unknown reasons (70.31%) & victims sustained 51–100% TBSA burns (87.5%), died from Septicemia (68.75%). Conclusion Most common married, housevies, belonged to young age were victims of Suicidal burn injury. Considering the morbidity and mortality owing to burns, government and other social organizations need to put special efforts for the prevention and education programs against Suicide.

Keywords

• Burn
• Suicide
• Females
• Septicemia