Journal Name:
- Indian Journal of Basic & Applied Medical Research
Abstract (2. Language):
Introduction: WHO reports estimate poisoning as one of the most common cause of increased morbidity and mortality rate
worldwide. In India, the exact incidence of poisoning cannot be defined as there is gross under reporting of cases of poisoning
and due to lack of research in this area. The study was undertaken to study the socio-demographic profile of poisoning cases and
to find out the factors affecting time interval between time of poisoning and first care seeking..
Methods: A descriptive study with cross-sectional design was conducted in Medicine ward of Burdwan Medical College and
Hospital, West Bengal. The study was conducted during December 2013 to February 2014.Data were collected on two randomly
selected days per week. Finally 222 cases were studied.
Observations and results: Majority of cases were Hindu, housewives, in 20-29 years age group, of general caste, from rural and
nuclear families. 18.5% of cases were illiterate Majority belonged to lower or upper-lower socio-economic class. Only 28.8% of
cases sought health care within 2 hours of poisoning. Caste and residence were significantly associated (p<0.05) with the time
interval between first care seeking and time of ingestion of poison. Organophosphorous was the most commonly used poison.
Quarrel with spouse was the major reason for intake of poisons.
Conclusion: Awareness should be generated among people about the harmful effects of agro-chemicals. Psychological
counselling of adolescents with problems is to be done. Women empowerment should be ensured.
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