Study on Profile of Acute Poisoning in a Rural Tertiary Care Hospital in Telangana

Abstract

Poisoning has become an increasing cause of concern over the past decade, not only a major medical issue in
India but also a significant global health problem. Nearly 3 million people consume poison each year resulting
in 220000 deaths annually, majority with the intention of suicide. A Retrospective, hospital record based
study was conducted in a rural medical college hospital including 100 cases of acute poisoning. Snake bite
cases were excluded. Agricultural poison specifically organ phosphorus poisoning is the most predominant
one observed in our study, with a total of 61 percent cases reported to the hospital. Majority of the poisonings
were in the age group of 21-40 years. Gender based in-equivalence observed among males and females with
a ratio of 3:1. A significant percentage of suicides were found with an estimate of 95%. Around 39% cases
treated with a specific antidote and the remaining 61% had other modalities of treatment. The early initiation
of gastric lavage, specific antidote and appropriate supportive management achieved a better outcome. The
mortality of poisoning is 1% in the current study. The lower mortality rate observed due to large number of
cases about 25% are referred to higher centers. Highest number of suicides was observed among farmers
due to losses in agriculture, financial hardship and domestic issues. Psychologically depressed farmers
committed suicide by consuming nearest available poison, organo-phosphorous compounds. Psychiatry
counseling, agriculture support and financial help should be given to them at community level to bring
down the mortality. Hospitals should develop adequate diagnostic facilities, equipment support and skilled
supportive staff to combat poisoning deaths.