Media

World Suicide Prevention Day 2011: Symposium and Global Launch Press Conference - First Time in Asia

09 Sep 2011

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates a global mortality rate of suicide of 16.0 per 100,000 population, or one death every 40 seconds. Suicide rates in the Western Pacific Region have been steadily rising in recent decades. As one of the metropolitan cities in this region, Hong Kong has recorded 943 suicide cases or 13.3 per 100,000 people in 2010 (Coroner's Court, 2011 data). In recent years there have been significant changes in the geographical and demographic distribution of suicides. Research and resources are still limited and require development. Significant community efforts will be required to prevent suicide on a large scale.

On World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD), September 10, 2011, the theme "Preventing Suicide in Multicultural Societies" will focus on culture and diversity in communities, whilst encouraging the development and implementation of suicide intervention strategies. The International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP), the Hong Kong Jockey Club Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention (CSRP) and The University of Hong Kong are pleased to invite press members to attend the WSPD symposium and the associated press conference (see enclosed link). During the press conference, IASP President Dr Lanny Berman, together with CSRP Director, Professor Paul S. F. Yip, will announce the latest international and local findings on suicide and discuss practices of suicide prevention in this region and beyond.

Date: September 10, 2011 (Saturday)
Time: Symposium - 9.00am -4.30pm
Press Conference - 5.00pm - 6.00 pm
Location: Lecture Theatre 4, Cheung Kung Hai Conference Centre
William MW Mong Block,
Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine
21 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam
Enquiry: Miss Sophia Chak (Tel: 2831 5232)