Intentional burns in Nepal: a comparative study.

Area of Science:

• Trauma Surgery
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Intentional burn injuries present a significant global health challenge, associated with high mortality and severe morbidity.
• In Nepal, understanding the specific characteristics and risk factors of intentional burns is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively assess intentional burn admissions at Bir Hospital, Kathmandu, Nepal, between 2002 and 2013.
• To compare the socio-demographic, injury, and psychosocial factors of patients with intentional versus unintentional burns.

Main Methods:

• Secondary data analysis of de-identified patient records from Bir Hospital's adult Burns Unit.
• Statistical comparison using Chi-square tests, Fisher's exact test, and Wilcoxon rank sum tests.

Main Results:

• Intentional burns accounted for 29% of admissions, with higher mortality (60% vs. 22%) compared to unintentional burns.
• Intentional burn patients were more likely to be female, younger, have extensive burns, and injuries primarily caused by fire at home, often using kerosene.
• Psychosocial risk factors, including adjustment problems and pre-existing psychological conditions, were identified in the majority of intentional burn cases.

Conclusions:

• Intentional burns in Nepal predominantly affect females, occur at home via fire, and are linked to significant psychosocial issues.
• These findings underscore intentional burns as a critical medical, public health, and gender issue in Nepal.
• Interventions addressing psychosocial risk factors and gender disparities are essential for reducing the burden of intentional burns.