NCJ Number
183289
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 44 Issue: 1 Dated: January 1999 Pages: 27-31
Date Published
January 1999
Length
5 pages
Annotation
A retrospective study examined trends in fatalities in Taiwan related to methamphetamine and sought to determine the epidemiological implications of methamphetamine, which is currently regarded as the major illicit drug in Taiwan and the majority of the illicit drugs seized by government personnel.
Abstract
The analysis focused on the 3,958 forensic cases that received autopsy and medicolegal death investigations at the Forensic Medicine Center, the Public Prosecutor’s Office for the Taiwan High Court, during 1991-96. Results revealed 244 methamphetamine-related fatalities. The annual percentages of methamphetamine-related fatalities were 3.4 in 1991, 10.3 in 1992, 12.1 in 1993, 4.2 in 1994, 4.0 in 1995, and 5.6 in 1996. The average age of these fatalities was 30.7 years. Seventy-three percent of those who died were male. The manner of deaths included natural, accidental, suicidal, homicidal, and uncertain causes of death. Findings indicated the results of the use of a strengthened anti-drug program in Taiwan in response to the endemic problem and public hazard created by drug abuse. Figures, tables, and 23 references (Author abstract modified)