|
|
Solvent abuse mortality figures - August 2008
The following information is published in St George's University of London
annual report on mortalities from solvent and volatile substance abuse.
The current report provides figures for 2006 (the last recorded year).
Key findings from the report
- There were 49 deaths associated with volatile substance abuse
(VSA) in 2006, 4 more than in 2005. The total number of
VSA deaths in the UK since 1971 now stands at 2,247.
- There were no VSA deaths in the 10-14 year age group in 2006
compared with 4 in 2005. There were 6 deaths below the age of
18 in 2006 compared with 8 in 2005 and 13 in 2004. Of these deaths,
two were associated with butane cigarette lighter refills, the
sale of which to under-18's is prohibited by legislation, and
3 were associated with aerosols.
- In 2006 there were 5 deaths associated with the inhalation
of nitrous oxide, which had been obtained for non-medical purposes.
- Gas fuels continue to be associated with the majority of deaths.
In 2006, butane from all sources, including aerosol propellants,
accounted for almost 70% of VSA deaths (33 of the 49 deaths).
- VSA deaths continue to be much more common among males than
females. In 2006, there were three times as many male as female
deaths although in the under-18 year olds there were no female
deaths.
- Death rates over the last ten years are highest in North East
England, the East Midlands, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
- Of the 48 deaths in 2006, ten were suicides in adults involving
the inhalation of a volatile substance.
You can find the full report on the St
George's University of London site.
Download Key findings from previous years:
 St
George's Report 2007
St
George's Report 2006
|
|
|
Re-Solv is a non profit making company, limited by guarantee.
Company Registered No. 1859082 Registered Charity No. 326732
|
