Netherlands euthanasia rate hits record

New figures show that the euthanasia rate in the Netherlands has climbed to 13 percent in 2012, marking the sixth consecutive year of increase.

In its annual report published on Tuesday, the commission that evaluates files of euthanasia in the Netherlands reported 4,188 cases of the practice, stressing that euthanasia accounts for approximately 3 percent of all deaths in the country.

The 2012 statistic, doubled from 1,923 cases reported in 2006, marks a record for the past years.

Experts failed to provide a reason for the increase but said the likely possibility includes a growing awareness and acceptance of the practice among both Dutch doctors and patients.

Most euthanasia cases in the Netherlands are attributed to cancer.

In 2002, the Netherlands passed a law allowing euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide if the attending doctor carried out acts in accordance with criteria of due care.

GMA/PR