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The pattern of childhood poisoning in the western Cape
J C Roberts1, P M Leary, M D Mann
1Institute of Child Health, University of Cape Town.
Insights
Childhood poisoning remains a concern, with drugs and paraffin being common causes. Prevention requires ongoing vigilance to protect children from toxic ingestions.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Toxicology
- Public Health
Background:
- Childhood poisoning is a significant public health issue requiring ongoing surveillance.
- The Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital manages a substantial number of pediatric poisoning cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze poisoning cases treated at a major children's hospital.
- To examine the prevalence of specific poisoning agents, particularly paraffin, in a defined region.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of hospital treatment data for pediatric poisoning.
- Review of telephone calls received by a regional poisons information line.
Main Results:
- 1,116 children received treatment for poisoning.
- Drugs (60%) and paraffin (30%) were the most frequent agents ingested.
- High prevalence of paraffin poisoning noted in the Western Cape region.
Conclusions:
- Childhood poisoning necessitates continuous monitoring and preventative strategies.
- Specific agents like paraffin require targeted public health interventions in endemic areas.
Abstract:
An analysis of poisoning cases treated at the Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital during 1987 and of calls received on the poisons line is presented. Treatment of 1,116 children was undertaken and 922 telephone calls were logged. Of the patients treated, 60% had ingested a drug and 30% had drunk paraffin. The high prevalence of paraffin poisoning in the western Cape is examined. Constant vigilance must be maintained if childhood poisoning is to be prevented.