NCJ Number
201556
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 48 Issue: 4 Dated: July 2003 Pages: 821-826
Date Published
July 2003
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This study reviewed retrospectively all cases of suicide by fall from heights in Geneva for the period from 1991 through 2000.
Abstract
During the 1990’s, Geneva experienced an economic crises that resulted in widespread unemployment. Unemployment, as well as mental illness have been shown to be important risk factors for suicide. The authors retrospectively examined the 197 suicide by fall from heights that occurred in Geneva during the study period. Of these 197 suicides, 65 autopsies and 48 toxicology analysis were conducted. Females accounted for 56 percent of the suicide victims, while males accounted for 44 percent of the suicide victims. Most victims jumped from a height of between two to seven stories; generally from their homes. Injury sites included the thorax, abdomen, skull, vertebrae, pelvis, and limbs. Psychiatric illness was reported in 38 percent of these cases. Results of toxicology analysis performed in 24 percent of the cases indicated the presence of benzodiazepines, cannabis, and antidepressants. Limitations of the study include the fact that only 33 percent of the cases had autopsies performed and only 24 percent had toxicology analysis performed. Despite these limitations, the findings regarding the pattern of injuries, psychiatric history, and toxicology reports are significant and consistent with other suicide studies. Tables, references