Pattern of Mortality in Sudden Natural Death in North Delhi: A Prospective Autopsy Study

Abstract

Objectives: In every population, the pattern of sudden natural deaths is often associated with the epidemiologic
profile of certain common killer diseases. The common belief has been that infectious/communicable
diseases are the most common reasons of mortality. However, changing lifestyle, increasing literacy level
and advanced healthcare fascilities in India have impacted immensely on the causes of death. We, therefore,
planned to determine the etiology and epidemiologic characteristics of sudden death at Hindurao hospital at
North Delhi. The high incidence of sudden, unexpected death in the heart of the capital city is still an enigma
and hence we decided to analyse the cases of sudden death in the last two years at our hospital. This study
was conducted to illustrate etiolopathology, risk factors and triggers of sudden death with the aim to provide
new insight in epidemiological aspects of sudden death. This should help in care of patients, and prevention
of sudden death.
Method: A prospective study of 124 cases of sudden death was conducted at a tertiary care hospital at North
Delhi. After evaluating detailed history from the family members, autopsy has been performed to find out
cause of sudden death.
Results: The main etiology of sudden death is cardiovascular disease. Highest numbers of sudden death
are in old age group. Male patients succumbed to sudden death more which may be related to multiple
comorbidities in them. Sudden deaths were more encountered during winters and in morning hours. There
are some autopsy negative cases, which are unexplained sudden death.
Conclusions: Cardiovascular, respiratory disorders and central nervous system were the major causes
of sudden natural death. Seasonal variation of sudden death especially from respiratory causes may be
attributed to rise in pollution and poor air quality during winter season in Delhi.