Suicide in the north of Thailand.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the characteristics of complete suicide in the North of Thailand from 1998-2002.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

Data of suicide in the North of Thailand were obtained from the Bureau of Policy and Strategy, Ministry of Public Health and analyzed mortality from suicides during 1998-2002 classified by gender and methods.

RESULTS

The suicide rate in the North for both genders was the highest among all regions of Thailand (average rate of 13.9 per 100,000 population during 1998-2002). The ratio of male to female was 3.6:1. There was a peak age group for male suicides (aged 25-34 years) while female suicides showed less variation with age. Hanging was the most common suicide method followed by the use of agricultural toxic substances. Suicides were most prevalent in the upper northern region and high suicide rates occurred in Chiangmai, Lampoon, Phayao, Chiangrai, and Phrae provinces.

CONCLUSION

The suicide rate in the upper northern Thailand was found to be considerably high. Therefore, suicide prevention programs should be given priority in this region, particularly in Chiangmai and Lampoon provinces.