Retrospective Study of Poisoning Related Human Deaths in Shimla and Solan During 2015–16

Despite the best efforts made by many researchers, the true figure on mortalities due to poisoning throughout the world is still hard to achieve, primarily due to unavailability of complete and routine records needed for generating database. The aim of this study was to determine the epidemiological profile of fatal poisoning cases in two districts of Himachal Pradesh. This retrospective study was carried out at State Forensic Science Laboratory of Himachal Pradesh situated at Junga to evaluate the pattern of poisoning deaths in Shimla and Solan during 2015–16. Concerned data were analyzed in all possible aspects to identify various epidemiological parameters. Data facts revealed large number of cases with major involvement of young adult males from the rural localities. Use of ethyl alcohol and pesticides was higher in poisoning related mortalities, especially under accidental mode. Outcome of this study may help to manage and minimize the poisoning related incidences from these localities to a considerable extent.