Pattern of acute poisoning in a medical unit in central Sri Lanka

One hundred and seventy nine cases of acute poisoning constituting 1.1% of all admissions to the medical unit over 3 years were analysed. Eighty-three per cent of the patients were under 30 years of age and 72% were males. The common agents were: OP insecticides in 51%, kerosene oil in 12%, rat poison in 8% and drugs in 8%. Ingestion with suicidal intent was the common mode of poisoning. The overall mortality was 16%. The results from four other major centres in Sri Lanka are presented for comparison.