Age-Wise Patterns of Unnatural Deaths in Reproductive-Age Women: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Manner and Cause

Abstract

Background:

Unnatural deaths among reproductive age group females (15–49 years) are of significant public health concern. This study aims to evaluate the correlation between age and the manner and cause of such deaths to identify vulnerable subgroups and trends.

Objectives:

To determine the association between different age brackets within the reproductive age group and the manner (homicidal, suicidal, accidental) and cause (burns, poisoning, hanging, etc.) of unnatural deaths.

Methods:

This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology at tertiary care center over a period of five months, from September 2024 to January 2025. A total of 128 cases of unnatural deaths in reproductive-age females brought for medico-legal autopsy were included. Data were collected on demographic details, age, cause, and manner of death, and statistical analysis was performed to find significant correlations.

Results:

Most unnatural deaths occurred in the 21–30 years age group. Suicide was the most common manner of death, particularly due to hanging and poisoning, while accidental deaths were more prevalent in the 15–20 years group, mainly due to burns. A statistically significant correlation was observed between age and both the manner and cause of death (p<0.05).

Conclusion:

The findings suggest a strong age-related trend in unnatural deaths among reproductive-age females. Early adult women (21–30 years) are particularly vulnerable to suicidal deaths, calling for targeted mental health interventions and preventive strategies.