Patterns and risk factors of acute poisoning among children in rural Sri Lanka

Abstract

The study describes the patterns, risk factors and outcome following acute poisoning among children (9 months - 12 years) in rural Sri Lanka. The current multi-center study was hospital based and involved two major hospitals (Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa), and 34 peripheral hospitals of the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. Total period covered by the study was seven years. Data were collected using interviewer administered questionnaire based assessments. Among 1621 children, boys (59%) outnumbered girls and most were in preschool age group. Majority belonged to the farming community. Commonest poison and type of poison were kerosene oil and household poisons respectively. Most had unintentional poisoning and incidents mostly occurred within their own house premises. Inadequate supervision, unsafe storage, and unsafe environment were among most significant risk factors. Complications were observed in 12.5% and commonest was chemical pneumonitis. Victims of acute poisoning in paediatric age group are predominantly preschoolers, and male children are at a higher risk. Complications though rare are potentially preventable through community education regarding risk factors, timely attention to seek medical care and avoidance of harmful first aid practices.