Japan detergent suicide sparks panic

Hydrogen sulfide gas is colorless and characterized by an odor similar to that of rotten eggs. When inhaled, it can lead to suffocation or brain damage.

Suicides in Japan passed the 30,000 mark in 1998, near the height of an economic slump that left many bankrupt, jobless and desperate.

A total of 32,155 people killed themselves in 2006, giving the country the ninth highest suicide rate in the world, according to the government.

The government has earmarked $220 million for anti-suicide programs to help those with depression and other mental conditions.