Epidemiologic profile of deaths due to drug and chemical poisoning in patients referred to Baharloo Hospital of Tehran, 2011 to 2014

Abstract

BackgroundIn developing countries with high mortality rates, poisoning is one of the most common causes of admission to emergency rooms. To minimize future deaths related to poisoning, the epidemiological profile of deceased individuals is essential. MethodsThe medical records of all dead patients due to poisoning during 2011–2014 in Baharloo Hospital, Tehran, were evaluated. Exclusion criteria include: incomplete records, unknown causes of death, and persons less than 6 years of age. Data analysis was done by means of SPSS at the significance level of P < 0.05. ResultsThe study included 184 males and 65 females. The mean age range was 37.65 ± 16.78 years. The highest mortality rate was seen in the age range of 21–30 years (30.5%). The most common cause of poisoning was aluminum phosphide (101 cases). The average time of hospitalization was 3.61 days. Most deaths occurred during the first 10 days of admission with intentional poisoning being the most common type (81.5%). ConclusionThe outcome of this study indicates that the main cause of death among young people is intentional poisoning with AIP. This study proves that a greater focus when diagnosing mental health patients, as well as an increase in restrictions when accessing lethal drugs and toxins, is crucial.