Affiliations 

  • 1 Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Forensic Unit, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
  • 2 Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Forensic Unit, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. aung2ya@ppukm.ukm.edu.my
Malays J Pathol, 2024 Aug;46(2):287-293.
PMID: 39207005

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The prevalence of suicide presents a significant public health challenge globally, affecting diverse populations around the world. This study is motivated by the urgency to tackle suicide as a crucial public health issue on a global level, according to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the General Programme of Work and Mental Health Action by the World Health Organization.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: The research was performed at the Forensic Unit of Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz, spanning a retrospective analysis covering 2012 to 2021. A descriptive analysis was conducted to analyse the patterns of suicide and the sociodemographic characteristics of the cases.

RESULTS: The findings show monthly variations and a recent increase in suicide rates, especially during the pandemic of COVID-19. Analysis of suicide methods indicates that hanging is the most common suicide method, which accounts for almost half of the sample population, followed by jumping from a height and burning charcoal. Adult males are primarily implicated in suicidal acts, and the study reveals unique trends among different age groups, genders and employment statuses.

CONCLUSION: This study aims to offer thorough insights and comprehension into suicide within the Malaysian sociodemographic framework. Consequently, it could furnish valuable insights for public health authorities and governmental bodies.

* Title and MeSH Headings from MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.