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Accidental poisoning of children in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Insights
Accidental poisoning in children is a significant issue, with household products being the leading cause. Prevention strategies include safe storage and parental education to reduce incidence.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Toxicology
- Public Health
Background:
- Accidental poisoning in children represents a notable public health concern.
- Data on poisoning cases in children in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the trends and characteristics of accidental poisoning cases in children admitted to Riyadh Governmental Hospitals between 1983 and 1987.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 7142 case records of children admitted for accidental poisoning.
- Data collected from all Riyadh Governmental Hospitals over a five-year period (1983-1987).
Main Results:
- Household products were the most frequent cause (59%), followed by drugs (39%) and plants (2%).
- Children aged one to two years were the most commonly affected demographic.
- The overall fatality rate was low, at 0.1%.
Conclusions:
- Improved living conditions, secure storage of hazardous substances, and enhanced parental health education are crucial for reducing childhood poisoning incidents.
- Targeted interventions focusing on household products and young children are recommended.
Abstract:
There were 7142 cases of accidental poisoning in children admitted to all Riyadh Governmental Hospitals during the five years period (1983-87). Household products were the most common poisoning agent, accounting for 59% of all cases. This was followed by drugs (39%), and plants (2%). Children aged one to two years were the most affected. The fatality rate was 0.1%. This study indicates that improved living conditions, proper storage of the drugs and chemicals as well as health education of parents will help in reducing the incidence of poisoning.