Epidemiological Study of Poisoning from Eastern India

Poisoning is a very common cause of mortality in our society. With changing socioeconomic conditions, the type of poison used and the age group most susceptible to poisoning is also changing. However, the data regarding the epidemiology of poisoning in Eastern India is very scarce. This was a hospital based observational study. Patients with Poisoning of any form, coming to the emergency departments of two teaching hospitals of West Bengal over a period of 1 year, were assessed and followed up till final outcome. Any animal/reptile bites were excluded as also patients with coexistent morbidities like malignancy. Relevant blood tests were also done. The data were analysed using standard statistical software. The gender ratio in our study population of 134 was 1.48:1 in favour of males. 60% of our patients were from rural background. 82% of our patients were aged less than 30. Suicidal intent was the main motive for poisoning in most cases. The predominant poison we found was organophosphorus [n=72], followed by acids and medicines. Mortality was 9.7% [n=13], majority were due to organophosphorus. GCS score at presentation was a significant predictor of mortality. Also, the patients with leucocytosis at presentation were more likely to die. Mortality in males were more than females [p=0.07]. Poisoning causes much morbidity in young adult population of our society. GCS score at presentation is an important determinant of subsequent mortality. Agricultural chemicals still comprise the commonest poison used in eastern India.