spike in Iranian suicides attributed to “rice pills”
Published on: January 18, 2024.
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Increase in Deaths Caused by “Rice Pills” Raises Concern in Iran
The consumption of “rice pills” has led to an alarming increase in the number of deaths in Iran, according to Salim Khani, the director general of forensic medicine in Kermanshah province. Statistics from the past nine months indicate that at least 49 individuals have lost their lives due to the use of these pills, showing a rise compared to last year. Among the victims, 14 were women and 35 were men.
“Rice pills” are made of a group of pest control agents known as aluminum phosphide, which are commonly used to eliminate pests in warehouses and homes due to their effectiveness and low cost. However, the increased usage of these pills has resulted in numerous cases of poisoning and death.
Similar cases have been reported in Mazandaran province, where the director general of forensic medicine reported 113 deaths in the past eight months. The statistics show that individuals between the ages of 21 and 30 were most affected, while those under 16 had the lowest fatality rate.
The rise in deaths caused by “rice pills” is just one of the many social consequences of recent economic problems in Iran. These include an increase in suicide rates, crime rates, and dropout rates, as well as a disturbing trend of organ trafficking.
Last year, the Ministry of Health recorded approximately 120,000 suicides. A report by the state-run Jahan Sanat newspaper highlighted the correlation between job insecurity and the suicide rate in the country.
Experts believe that the Iranian regime’s governance methods and inefficiency in providing welfare and basic rights have contributed significantly to these social issues over the past four decades.
Effects of “Rice Pills” Consumption
The consumption of “rice pills” has proven to be fatal, with an increasing number of deaths in Iran. These pills, made of aluminum phosphide, are commonly used as pest control agents due to their effectiveness and low cost. However, their misuse has resulted in poisoning and fatalities.
- Increased Deaths: Statistics from the past nine months show that at least 49 individuals have lost their lives due to the use of “rice pills.” This number is higher compared to the same period last year.
- Vulnerable Groups: Among the victims, 14 were women and 35 were men. Individuals between the ages of 21 and 30 were most affected, while those under 16 had the lowest fatality rate.
Social Consequences of Economic Problems
Iran’s recent economic problems have had significant social consequences, exacerbating existing issues and creating new challenges.
- Increased Suicide Rates: Recordings in the Ministry of Health system indicate that around 120,000 individuals committed suicide last year, emphasizing the pressing need for mental health support and intervention.
- Job Insecurity: The state-run Jahan Sanat newspaper reported 6,000 suicide cases resulting in death, highlighting the link between lack of job security and the rise in suicide rates.
- Rise in Crime Rates: Economic hardships have contributed to an increase in crime rates, further destabilizing communities.
- Dropout Rates: Economic difficulties have also led to a rise in school dropout rates, impacting the future prospects of young individuals.
- Organ Trafficking: Disturbingly, there has been a concerning trend of organ trafficking due to financial desperation.
The need for effective governance and improved welfare measures is crucial to address these pressing social issues in Iran.
Source: iranfocus.com
