Introduction : Acute poisoning remains a critical global concern among low- and middle-income population countries like India. Unauthorized purchase of agricultural pesticides, easy access to toxic substances and socioeconomic stressors contribute to high incidence rates. Poisoning-related morbidity and mortality vary across regions of India. Understanding the incidence, sociodemographic patterns and mortality rates associated with acute poisoning is essential for improving prevention strategies and healthcare interventions. The current research aims to analyze the patterns of incidence, sociodemographic factors and mortality rate among acute poisoning patients in Namakkal District, Tamil Nadu.
Methods : A prospective observational study was conducted in the emergency unit of a leading healthcare centre in Namakkal, Tamil Nadu over a six-month period from August 2024 to January 2025. The study focused on patients presenting with acute poisoning to assess poisoning patterns and sociodemographic factors.
All patients diagnosed with acute poisoning, regardless of type or intent, were included in the study. Data on poisoning patterns, sociodemographic factors and clinical details were recorded using case collection form. The collected data were entered into Microsoft Excel (Microsoft Corp., 2021) and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) to derive meaningful interpretations and statistical outcomes.
RESULTS: More than 70% of the acute poisoning cases reported in this study were in individuals under 50. Major contributors were young students and homemakers. Half of the population were middle- and lower-income people. Family problems, failures, work stress and financial problems such as online scams and gambling were the major reasons for poisoning. The patient survival and death ratio are 24:1, which requires timely intervention and prevention from acute poisoning cases in Tamil Nadu.
CONCLUSION: This study underscores the increasing incidence of intentional acute poisoning, particularly among young women, driven by psychosocial stressors, financial instability, and emerging online risks. The findings emphasize the need for targeted mental health interventions, poisoning prevention programs, and comprehensive public health strategies to mitigate these risks and improve overall well-being.