Assisted suicide Suicide in Switzerland

in 2014, total of 742 assisted suicides (320 men, 422 women) has been recorded, or 1.2% of deaths in resident population of switzerland. amounts increase of more 250% compared 2009; while total suicide rate has been declining since 1980s, assisted suicides have increased since 2000. in 94% of cases, people opting assisted suicide above 55 years of age, , in majority of cases suffering terminal disease (42% cancer, 14% neurodegeneration (e.g. parkinson s), 11% cardiovascular diseases, 10% musculoskeletal disorders). rate highest in canton of zürich (1.4% of deaths), followed geneva (1.3%).

assisted suicide has been legal since 1941 if performed non-physician without vested interest in individual s death. law prohibits doctors, spouses, children, or other such related parties directly participating in 1 s death. many citizens other countries cross on switzerland end lives. in 2011, proposed ban of practice of suicide tourism rejected popular vote in canton of zürich 78% majority. laws regulating assisted suicide not limit practice terminally ill, necessary person seeking assisted suicide while in full possession of decision-making capacity (and indeed statistics on assisted suicide show minority of cases citing depression relevant illness).

the swiss government in 2011 nevertheless announced intention seek change in laws make sure used last resort terminally ill . dignitas, swiss group facilitates suicide, requires patients provide specific doctor s proof , prognosis in writing specifying terminal illness.