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DOI: DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.21088/ijfmp.0974.3383.11318.2

Abstract

Background: Pattern of unnatural deaths is a reflection of the socio-economic status and mental health of the society. Objective of the study was to determine the pattern and cause of unnatural deaths and to find the association of causes with socio-demographic factors in a rural tertiary care hospital. Material and Methods: Retrospective record based study was conducted from the records of previous 2 years and 342 subjects were finally included. Institutional ethical clearance was obtained prior to the start of the study. Structured proforma was used to collect data related to cause and pattern of unnatural deaths. Data was analysed using SPSS 17 version software. p value <0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: Majority 52.04% were in the age group 41 to 60 years, 67.26% of them were females, 67.83% were from rural background and lower socioeconomic status (42.1%). Most common cause of unnatural death was head injury (35.08%), followed by poisoning (21.05%), burns in 13.45%, drowning in 9.94%, Hanging in 8.77% and other in 11.69% Conclusion: Head injury and poisoning were the  most common cause for unnatural deaths and age, sex, locality and socioeconomic status determine the pattern of unnatural deaths.
Keywords: Unnatural Deaths; Retrospective Study; Socio Demographic Factors; Head Injury; Poisoning.
 

Corresponding Author : Shreedhara K.C., Associate Professor, Dept. of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Chamarajanagar Institute of Medical Sciences, Karnataka 571313, Chamarajanagar, Yadapura, Karnataka 571313, India.