Steep rise in use of agrochemicals for suicide

by Carol Aloysius

The newly produced pesticides used to kill insects and to promote plant growth are being increasingly used for suicidal purposes, Health Ministry sources said.

"The most commonly used of these agrochemicals are Abamectine, Imidaclopid and Nominee. In addition Inset Growth Regulators ( IGR) and Plant Growth Regulators ( PGR) which were used in the past have now been produced in new brands," Medical Toxicologist, Poisons Information Unit, National Hospital Sri Lanka ( NHSL), Dr Samantha Liyanage told the Sunday Observer.

"Although they are meant to be used for farming purposes , today, many young persons , between the age of 20-30 are using it to attempt suicide.The fact that they are registered and freely available in most outlets selling agricultural products , makes them easily accessible to anyone wishing to commit suicide", he noted.

Ingesting these pesticides can cause serious health risks, he warned. " It can lead to heart failure, renal failure , neurological convulsions( fits) and the patient can even die."Pesticide poisoni g is the leading cause of poisoning in Sri Lanka. According to Health Ministry statistics the number of patients admitted to hospitals across the country in 2013 was 21,133 with 502 deaths. Figures for last year are still being finalised health sources said. On an average the National Poisons Information Unit receives around 20 calls per day from medical personnel islandwide seeking guidance on treating patients with pesticide poisoning , with most calls being made at night, when most suicide attempts are made.

The Poisons Information Unit is currently educating rural farming communities to minimise this major clinical public health problem.