© BBC News - Tuesday, February 16, 1999
The study found life was ended to "preserve dignity".
Euthanasia controls are failing in the Netherlands, where the practice is regulated and tolerated, according to a report.
The finding has led campaigners to warn against decriminalising the practice in the UK.
Voluntary euthanasia has not been a criminal offence in Holland since 1984, when courts and the Royal Dutch Medical Association drew up strict guidelines for doctors.
However, a survey into medical practice regarding end of life decisions carried out in 1996 suggests some doctors are ignoring these safeguards.
Its findings are presented in the Journal of Medical Ethics.