Asphyxial deaths utilising plastic bags or wrappings occurring over a 20-year period from March 1984 to February 2004 were
reviewed at Forensic Science SA, Australia. A total of 45 cases were identified, with three occurring in infants and children (one
accidental asphyxia; two homicides). Of the remaining 42 adults the male to female ratio was approximately 1:1 (23 and 19 cases,
respectively), with all deaths attributed to suicide. The 42 adult cases represented 1.2% of the 3569 suicides autopsied at the centre
over the time period of the study. The age ranges of the adult victims were 19–88 years (mean = 47.1 years) for the males, and 32–89
years (mean = 60.5 years) for the females. The adult female victims were significantly older than the males (p < 0.001). A number of
victims had histories of depression and had taken prescription medications. A significant difference was found in the temporal occurrence
of the adult deaths, with six cases occurring between 1984 and 1989, nine between 1989 and 1994, 11 between 1994 and 1999,
and 16 between 1999 and 2004 (p < 0.001). Plastic bag asphyxial deaths were rare and in adults were due to suicide involving either
older females or younger males. A significant increase in cases in South Australia in recent years was demonstrated, possibly related
to publicity surrounding assisted suicides, and the ready availability of suicide manuals and information on suicide techniques from
the internet.