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[Fatal poisoning in Mali]
1Faculté de pharmacie, Université des sciences, des techniques et des technologies, Bamako, Mali.
Aims:
The aim of this study was to determine the epidemiological characteristics of the cases of fatal poisoning in Mali.
Methods:
This retrospective study examined the cases of fatal poisoning recorded between 2000 and 2010 in six Health Reference centers, six regional hospitals and three university hospitals in the district of Bamako.
Results:
During the study period, 146 cases of fatal poisoning were recorded, accounting for 4.6% of all poisoning cases during this period. The average age of patients who died was 24 ± 17.7 years with a female-male ratio of 1.05. Nearly half (43%) were younger than 20 years. The ingestion was intentional in 66.4% of cases, mainly suicide attempts (47%) and therapeutic errors (19%). The median time until arrival at hospital was 8 hours after poisoning with multiple and varied clinical signs.
Conclusions:
Decreasing the mortality rate from poison ingestion requires increasing public awareness about poisons and improving emergency service equipment and health personnel training.
Insights
Fatal poisonings in Mali disproportionately affected young individuals, with intentional ingestion being a primary cause. Public awareness and improved emergency services are crucial for reducing mortality rates from poisoning.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Toxicology
- Public Health
Context:
- Fatal poisoning represents a significant public health concern in Mali.
- Understanding the epidemiological profile of fatal poisoning cases is essential for targeted interventions.
Purpose:
- To determine the epidemiological characteristics of fatal poisoning cases in Mali between 2000 and 2010.
- To identify demographic, etiological, and clinical factors associated with fatal poisoning outcomes.
Summary:
- A retrospective study analyzed 146 fatal poisoning cases from 2000-2010 in Bamako, Mali.
- The average age was 24 ± 17.7 years, with 43% under 20. Intentional ingestion (suicide attempts, therapeutic errors) accounted for 66.4% of cases.
- Median hospital arrival time was 8 hours, presenting with diverse clinical signs.
Impact:
- Findings highlight the need for enhanced public awareness regarding poisons and improved emergency medical services.
- Recommendations include better training for health personnel to reduce mortality from poison ingestion.
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