KATHMANDU: Suicide is now the single leading cause of death among women of the reproductive age (15-45) in Nepal, accounting for 16 per cent of the total deaths, a report has revealed.

A study, which was commissioned by the government in association with USAID, DFID and SSMP/NEPAL, and covering the period of 2008/09, found out that women of child-bearing age are more likely to commit suicide.

Although maternal mortality rate in Nepal has improved substantially since 1998 -- from 539 per 100,000 to 229 per 100,000 -- paving the way for achieving the UN Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), the suicide numbers were far worse in 2008/09 than in 1998.

"There has been a dramatic rise in the contribution of suicide (16 per cent) to the deaths of women of reproductive age, compared with 10 per cent in 1998. This makes it the leading single cause of death, whereas in 1998 it was the third," the report said.

The study has found that girls under 18 are more vulnerable to commit suicide. Mental health problems, relationships, marriage and family issues are cited as major factors contributing to suicide. The study calls for more attention to women's suicide and additional research.

The pregnancy status of the women may have placed them at greater risk of dying from suicide, homicide, and accidental fall, especially if the pregnancy was unwanted, the report stated. Among other interesting data: mortality is more likely among ethnic minorities and women over 35, and causes of maternal death vary hugely across the country. This shocking finding calls for immediate action and develop policies and interventions to address them.