Experts Raise Alarm on Rising Health Risks of Sexual Strangulation

Health experts in Sweden are sounding the alarm over the increasing prevalence of strangulation during sexual activities, particularly among young people. Brita Zilg, a forensic doctor from Rättsmedicinalverket, warned that strangulation can have serious health implications, often leaving no visible injuries—a factor that complicates detection and reporting. Eva Rudd, another forensic specialist, highlighted that the health risks can include irreversible brain damage, strokes, and even death, underscoring the dangers of even consensual strangulation.

Recent judicial cases illustrate these dangers. One notable incident involved a man causing cardiac arrest and lasting brain damage to his girlfriend through consensual strangulation, resulting in a prison sentence. This alarming trend is further supported by Rättsmedicinalverket's findings: a recorded 139 fatalities related to strangulation over the past two decades, with the majority of victims being women. In 2022 alone, over 600 non-fatal strangulation cases were documented, emphasizing that this form of violence is increasingly common.

Legal perspectives are also shifting, as experts like Eva Johnsson from the Swedish Prosecution Authority suggest that these findings may lead to more serious legal consequences for strangulation incidents. There is a pressing need for law enforcement and society at large to recognize the subtle signs of strangulation and address it with the same seriousness as other forms of violence.

As society continues to witness shifts in cultural acceptance of unusual sexual practices, experts advocate for enhanced education around the risks associated with strangulation, especially aimed at youth. There is an urgent call for public discussions and awareness campaigns to tackle this dangerous trend and prevent future tragedies.