Dept of Forensic Medicine, Kasturba Medical College Manipal-576104 (Karnataka)
Increasing mortality from poisoning is an issue of growing concern among medical professionals. This study deals with a retrospective analysis of eleven (11) year data of poisoning fatalities in Manipal, India. Of the 354 cases studied suicide topped the list (323 cases). 21–30 years was the most common age group involved. Males predominated. Most of the victims were from rural habitat and they consumed poison in their home. Poisoning was more commonly seen during the winter months. Organophosphorous compounds predominated. In 30.5% of the cases the victims survived for a period of 6–12 hours.
