Unseen Forces: The Hidden Truth About Strangulation Murders Involving Women

Strangulation murders are more common than we think, especially when it comes to women. This is a big problem that doesn't get enough attention. A deep dive into 40 Google Scholar, 26 PubMed, and 4 manually found articles revealed that strangulation is a silent killer, often overlooked in the shadows of more visible crimes. The challenge of diagnosing strangulation lies in the lack of obvious signs. Often, there are no visible marks on the body, making it hard to spot during an external examination. This is where forensic experts come in. They rely on clues and teamwork with legal authorities to piece together what happened. Strangulation is often a part of sexually motivated crimes. It can happen in many different ways, making it even trickier to identify.The Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Palermo shared four cases. These cases highlight the complexities and difficulties in interpreting strangulation evidence. The review aims to shed light on the specific traits of homicidal strangulation. It emphasizes the importance of mechanical asphyxia in forensic investigations. Differentiating strangulation from other causes of asphyxial death is no easy task. It requires a keen eye and a lot of experience. In the future, specific protocols, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced tools could help forensic pathologists. These tools could make it easier to perform differential diagnoses and compatibility assessments. This would be a game-changer in solving these complex cases. Strangulation is a serious issue that needs more attention. It's a silent killer that often goes unnoticed. By understanding the nuances of strangulation, we can better protect ourselves and others. It's crucial to raise awareness about this hidden danger. This will help us create a safer world for everyone, especially for women.