Citation

Verma L, Garg VK, Meena SK. J. Ind. Acad. Forensic Med. 2021; 43(2): 126-129.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2021, Indian Academy of Forensic Medicine)

DOI

10.5958/0974-0848.2021.00033.6

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

An adolescent is defined as an individual aged between 11-19 years. They constitute about 1.2 billion worldwide, and about 21% of Indian population. Mortality and morbidity occurring in this age group are mostly due to preventable causes. Mortalities in adolescents are cause of concern because they are the future of nation forming a major demographic and economic force. The purpose of this study is to analysis mortality in adolescents. Out of 1056 autopsies 94 victims were adolescents contributing 8.9% of total autopsies. Male deaths were more (about 60%) than female (about 40%) and all deaths increased with an increase in age. More than half of the total deaths (51%) were due to accidents, followed by suicides (43%). Females were prone to commit suicides. In suicidal deaths the most common cause was hanging following by poisoning. Use of appropriate safety measures and strict law enforcement may significantly reduce accidental deaths in adolescents. Suicides and homicides may be prevented by identification of risk factors, significant family support and proper psychological counselling. © 2021

Language: en

Keywords

Suicidal deaths; Accidental deaths; Adolescent mortalities