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Background: During the late nineteenth century, a considerable number of young Punjabi men sought their fortunes in the Australian colonies, working as hawkers and farm labor. While in Australia they experienced marginalization and high levels of racial vilification by the Anglo-Celtic settler community. Aims: To assess the frequency and nature of suicides of Punjabi workers in nineteenth century Australia. Materials and Methods: The paper draws on archival sources and contemporary newspaper reports. Results: A wide range of methods of suicides were observed, with drowning the preferred method. Conclusions: This article is the first to collate the data on the suicides and suicide attempts by young Punjabi men working in an immigration country. It can be shown that the suicide rate among Punjabi was almost six times higher than that of the host community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Eating disorders (EDs) are an emerging concern in India. There are few studies comparing clinical samples in western and nonwestern settings. Aim: The aim was to compare females aged 16-26 years being treated for an ED in India (outpatients n = 30) and Australia (outpatients n = 30, inpatients n = 30). Materials and Methods: Samples were matched by age and body mass index, and had similar diagnostic profiles. Demographic information and history of eating and exercise problems were assessed. All patients completed the qualityof- life for EDs (QOL EDs) questionnaire. Results: Indians felt they overate and binge ate more often than Australians; frequencies of food restriction, vomiting, and laxative use were similar. Indians were less aware of ED feelings, such as, "fear of losing control over food or eating" and "being preoccupied with food, eating or their body." Indians felt eating and exercise had less impact on their relationships and social life but more impact on their medical health. No differences were found in the global qualityof- life, body weight, eating behaviors, psychological feelings, and exercise subscores for the three groups. Conclusion: Indian and Australian patients are similar but may differ in preoccupation and control of their ED-related feelings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]