Suriname Tackles Pesticide-Related Suicides to Save Lives

Suriname faces one of the world's highest suicide rates, primarily due to the lethal pesticide paraquat. Efforts are underway to mitigate the risk by restricting access to this dangerous substance, as it poses a significant threat to mental health and public safety.

In the small South American nation of Suriname, suicide has emerged as a critical public health concern, characterized by one of the highest rates of self-inflicted fatalities globally. Central to this issue is paraquat, a drastic and fast-acting pesticide that has become synonymous with tragic self-harm, as it is readily available in rural communities.

Recent statistics reveal that pesticide-related suicides account for a significant portion of the nation's tragic deaths, with paraquat being a primary contributor. This potent herbicide, often used in agriculture, can cause severe health complications and death even in small doses due to its rapid absorption and lack of an antidote. For those who ingest it in moments of despair, regret often comes too late. Dr. Esther Fong, an emergency physician at Suriname’s most bustling hospital, laments the predictability of such situations, stating, “You see the death written on their foreheads, but you cannot do anything about it.”

To address this pressing issue, a growing movement of researchers, public health advocates, and philanthropists is advocating for essential reforms in pesticide regulation, specifically targeting paraquat. They argue that limiting access to these hazardous substances could save countless lives, providing a straightforward and cost-effective method to tackle suicides in the region.

Local educators and professionals express concern over the accessibility of paraquat, noting that most households possess this dangerous chemical, making it an easy option for those in distress. Ashna Badrising, an English teacher at the E.H. Cabell School, emphasizes this alarming reality, stating, “It’s very easy to find, and most every house has one bottle or more.”

As Suriname navigates its path towards reducing suicide rates, restrictions on the use and sale of paraquat could become a fundamental strategy in promoting public safety and mental health awareness, ultimately saving lives in this vulnerable community.