JIST

Abstract

Objective: To analyse the epidemiological profile, classes of poisoning agents, and manner of poisoning incidents reported to an early-stage Poison Information Centre (PIC)Bangalore South District, for targeted public health interventions.

Methods: A retrospective descriptive study analysed 197 poisoning cases reported to a tertiary care PIC (September 2023 - September 2024). Data extracted from telephone-based consultation logs included patient demographics, class of poisoning agent, and reported intent. Descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages) were used. Fatal outcomes documented via follow-up calls.

Results: Among 197 cases, 52.7% were female. Age groups 21–30 years (25.4%) and 11–20 years (24.9%) were most affected. Intent was largely undetermined (47.2%, n=93); however, intentional cases (36.5%, n=72) showed strong female preponderance. Accidental poisonings accounted for 16.2% (n=32). Pesticides predominated (43.7%, n=86), notably Pyrethroids (n=33) and Organophosphates (n=15). Unknown compounds (26.9%, n=53) and pharmaceutical agents (13.7%, n=27) were also significant. Paediatric cases (≤17 years) constituted 29.4% (n=58), mainly involving pesticides (n=18) and unknown substances (n=15). Thirteen fatalities (6.6% CFR) recorded, primarily from pesticides (n=7) and unknown compounds (n=4); an accidental atropine fatality involved a 3-year-old.

Conclusion: This early-stage registry highlights intentional self-poisoning with easily accessible pesticides, particularly among young females, as a significant burden in Bangalore South. High undetermined intent and unknown agents, coupled with paediatric vulnerability to accidental exposures, present critical challenges. Findings emphasize an urgent, multi-faceted public health response: integrating enhanced toxicovigilance, targeted prevention, improved clinical/forensic toxicology, and sustained inter-sectoral collaboration to mitigate this crisis.