A Study of Patient Profile of Organophosphorous Poisoning Attending a Tertiary Hospital of Andhra Pradesh

Organophosphate based pesticides are widely used and have emerged as the major contributor to ill health associated with pesticides & is a major global health problem. Despite improvements in intensive care and related disciplines& different modes of treatment, the mortality associated with Organo-Phosphorous insecticide poisoning has not decreased. Knowledge of the socio-demographic profile & the factors which led to poisoning as well as the clinical & biochemical profile, will help in the timely intervention for better prognosis & outcome as well as prevention of such hazards.

1. To study the sociodemographic & clinical profile of the patients of organo-phosphorous poisoning, 2. To assess the clinical & biochemical parameters useful in the prognosis of these patients.

Around 240 patients of organophosphorus poisoning who were admitted in G.S.L Medical College & Hospital during January 2010 to January 2011 were examined, investigated & interviewed with the help of a semi structured proforma. Their socio- demographic, clinical & biochemical profiles were studied. Results: Most of the cases were in the young age group of less than 30 years group which is a sensitive age group. Most of them had history of suicide attempt. Majority of the cases were brought to the hospital with the history of consumption of an unknown pesticide. Most of the females presented with severe symptoms. Most of the patients recovered due to timely management. Though the mortality rate was less but the patients who left against medical advice were about 20% which is quite significant.

It is suggested to create awareness & educate the people regarding organophosphorus poisoning as it is a public health problem, launch programs to change their attitude towards life, train them regarding the safety profiles of pesticide use and implementation of legislative measures in order to prevent such hazards in future.