Patterns of Fatal Poisoning Deaths: A Retrospective Study

Poisoning is an important public health problem causing significant morbidity and mortality throughout the world especially in developing countries. Acute poisoning with pesticide accounts for as many as 300,000 deaths worldwide every year. The majority of deaths occur due to exposure to organophosphates, organochlorines and aluminium phosphide. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the pattern of poisoning deaths in Ramanagar District of Karnataka. It is a retrospective study conducted during Jan 2010 - Dec 2013 in Rajarajeshwari medical college hospital, Bangalore, Karnataka. There were 153 cases of death due to acute poisoning. Among 153 cases, 133 cases were of intentional poisoning and 18 cases were of accidental poisoning. Males 114 cases (74.50%) outnumbered females 39 cases (25.50%). Peak occurrence was in the age group of 20–39 years (83 cases). Organophosphorus was the commonest agent (62%). More cases were reported during summer season (32%) followed by spring season (29.5%). The incidence of poisoning and its morbidity and mortality can be reduced by developing and implementation of effective prevention strategies.