British Study: Suicides, Illnesses Rising in Greece

Posted October 9th, 2011 at 9:00 pm (UTC-5)
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A British study says Greece’s economic crisis is taking a huge toll on the country’s health, with an increase in suicides and risky behavior, and a decrease in the number of people seeking medical help.

The study in The Lancet medical journal predicts a 52 percent rise in AIDS cases this year because of prostitution and unsafe sexual practices.

The journal also reports an increase in heroin use in Greece. It says more people have plunged into severe depression and that many are reluctant to seek medical help because government health care budgets have been cut.

However, the report notes that alcohol consumption and drunk driving have decreased.

But the authors say that overall, they are concerned about the health picture in Greece, stating that ordinary people are losing access to health care and preventive medical services as the government tries to finance its debt.