Study of epidemiological profile of hanging in Jodhpur region of Rajasthan: An autopsy based study

Suicidal tendencies are increasing at an alarming rate all over the world. Failures and consequent depression, being the leading cause. Hanging seems to be one of the most common methods of attempting suicide. A total 356 cases of death due to hanging, involving both males and females, were identified and studied during medicolegal autopsy at the Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, DR SN Medical College, Jodhpur. Male preponderance was observed with a majority being in middle age group (72%). In females, the most commonly affected were the adolescents and the young (77%). Atypical hanging with right sided knot dominated the picture. The rope (hard material) was the most common ligature material used by males whereas females preferred dupatta (soft material). Closed places were preferred to open areas. Most of these deaths were reported among Hindus, followed by Muslims. Majority were married (males, 72.7%; females, 59.1%). Most of the male victims were either involved in private jobs or worked as labourers; while the females were either housewives or students.