Abstract

Introduction: Poisoning is an important public health problem causing significant morbidity and mortality throughout the world especially in the developing countries. The cause for unintentional deaths due to poisoning may be due to easy availability and unsafe storage of poisonous substances like pesticides, insecticides etc. Modern day stressful life style may be the cause for such intentional poisoning. Pattern of poisoning in a region depends upon various factors, ranging from availability and access of poison to the socio-economic status of the individual. The present prospective study is undertaken to determine the burden of morbidity and mortality of poisoning cases at tertiary hospital of this region and to demonstrate the socio-demographic profile. Material and Methods: A cross-sectionalstudy was conducted on all cases of poisoning admitted and/or autopsied at Belgaum Institute of Medical Sciences (BIMS) Hospital, Belgaum, during a period spread over 18 months. Information about the victims, the type of poison, manner of poisoning are obtained from hospital records, police records and by direct interrogation with the relatives and others accompanying the victim & chemical examiner’s report (Regional Forensic Science Laboratory). Results: Out of 9068 admitted patients, 804 cases were of poisoning, 706 patients were admitted to medical ward and 98 victims were declared brought dead to casualty. Out of 706, 568 patients were recovered and discharged and 138 victims expired. In our study mortality rate is 19.5% and morbidity is 7.78%. Peak occurrence was in the age group of 20-29 years (39.30%). Male predominance was seen (64.1%). Most of the victims are rural habitant (65.54%) and involves upper lower class group (40%). Hindu population was most affected (92.78%). More cases were reported during winter season (50.12 %). Present study shows 93.15% cases are suicidal in nature, accidental poisoning constituted 5.59 % and 1% of homicidal cases of total number of cases. Insecticides accounts for 57.96% in that organo phosphorous compounds constitutes (68.24%).Conclusion: The commonest poisoning agent was Organ phosphorus. The occurrence was high among married males and in the age group of 20–29 years. Maximum number of cases was reported during winter season. The incidence of poisoning and its morbidity and mortality can be reduced by developing and implementation of effective prevention strategies. keywords | Poisoning; Insecticides; Mortality; Morbidity; Organ phosphorus.

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