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Deaths by poisoning in Norway 2003-2012
Jartrud Wigen Skjerdal1, Erik Andrew2, Finn Gjertsen3
1a Poisons Information Center , Norwegian Institute of Public Health , Oslo , Norway ;
Poisoning deaths in Norway decreased from 2003 to 2012, with opioids like heroin and methadone being significant factors. Continued monitoring of poisoning trends is crucial for public health.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Toxicology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Poisoning represents a significant and preventable cause of mortality in Norway.
- Effective public health strategies necessitate close surveillance of poisoning trends.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the patterns and temporal trends of poisoning-related mortality in Norway.
- The study period spans from 2003 to 2012, utilizing official mortality data.
Main Methods:
- A population-based registry study design was employed.
- Analysis included underlying external causes of death for poisoning (ICD-10 codes X40-Y19).
- Poisson regression was used to estimate mortality trends, with comparisons to other injury mechanisms.
Main Results:
- Poisoning was the second leading cause of injury deaths in Norway (2003-2012), with 424-496 annual fatalities.
- Accidental poisonings accounted for the majority (3366/4620) of deaths.
- Opioids were the primary agents; heroin deaths decreased, while methadone-related fatalities increased.
Conclusions:
- Poisoning mortality rates in Norway showed a decline between 2003 and 2012.
- Data interpretation requires caution due to potential international data collection differences.
- Emphasis on evaluating preventive measures and monitoring methadone-related deaths is recommended.
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