Epidemiology of self - burning in iranian townships covered by Shiraz university of medical sciences

Abstract

Background: Self - burning is known as an extremely violent means of suicide. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the epidemiology of self - burning in Iranian townships covered by Shiraz University of Medical Sciences during years 2009 to 2012. Patients and Methods: This cross - sectional research was performed on 250 self - burning cases and 181 self - burning attempts. Data was collected from the Comprehensive Suicide Prevention Program Checklist. To analyze the data, the chi - square test and logistic regression model were utilized. Results: Most self - burning cases were observed in females (70.4%), married individuals (60.4%), an age group of 15 to 24 years (38%), and rural residents (60.8%). Moreover, the highest and lowest self - burning cases had occurred during spring (31.2%) and fall (17.6%) (P = 0.736). Conclusions: The findings are indicative of a high occurrence of self - burning among young married females. Therefore, it is vital to provide this at risk group with the necessary prevention programs.