Abstract :
Poisoning is a global issue occurring all over the world involving people of all ages and gender, from all ethnic and economic groups. It is estimated that there are over 3 million cases of organophosphorus poisoning per year worldwide with approximately 300,000 deaths. Recent data from National crime bureau of India shows suicide by consumption of pesticides account for 14.7%, 14.4% and 10.9% of all cases of suicidal poisoning in the year 2012, 2013 and 2014 respectively.
Aims of the study: To assess the demographic patterns of OP poisoning with respect to age, sex, occupation, education, socioeconomic status.
Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted in a tertiary care teaching hospital in Madurai, Tamil Nadu. Hospital records of patients with history and clinical features of OP poisoning in the year 2014 were reviewed.
Results and discussion: 67% of poisoning cases were in the age group 21-40 years. The incidence was higher in males than in females. More than 50% of the victims in our study were illiterates. 78% cases were from rural area. 85% cases belong to lower and middle class. Farmers (40%) were the major victims. Suicide was the most common manner of poisoning. Methyl parathion was the most common poison consumed (26.5%). Nausea and vomiting (88%) were the most common clinical features. Atropine psychosis (29%) was the most common complication. Mortality rate was 12%.
Conclusion: Illiteracy, poverty, cheap and easy availability of the OP compounds, lack of employment and stressful life-style were the common reasons behind suicidal poisoning. Health education of farmers, other agricultural labourers and young people about the toxic and detrimental effects of OP compounds will help in preventing suicidal and accidental poisoning to some extent.
Keyword :
Poisoning, Organophosphorus compounds, Pesticide, Suicide, Farmers