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[Epidemiologic study of accidental poisoning cases treated at a pediatric hospital]
R Bedoya Pérez1, A Andrés Martín, J Fijo López-Viota
1Departamento de Pediatría, Hospital Infantil Universitario Virgen del Rocío, Sevilla.
Insights
This study on childhood acute poisoning in 447 children found that male toddlers are most at risk, with accidents often occurring at home due to unsupervised children and accessible toxic substances like medications.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Toxicology
- Epidemiology
Context:
- Acute poisoning in children is a significant public health concern.
- Understanding the epidemiological factors associated with childhood poisoning is crucial for prevention.
- This study examines poisoning incidents among children admitted to a hospital over a one-year period.
Purpose:
- To analyze the epidemiological characteristics and risk factors of acute poisoning in children.
- To identify common toxic agents and accident scenarios.
- To provide data for targeted prevention strategies.
Summary:
- A prospective epidemiological survey of 447 children with acute poisoning (February 1990-January 1991) revealed a predominance in male infants aged 2-3 years.
- Accidents predominantly occurred at home (kitchen/bedroom) due to inadequate supervision and accessible toxic substances, with peak hours between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m.
- Pharmaceuticals were the leading cause, followed by household cleaning products, with low morbidity and no mortality.
Impact:
- Findings highlight the need for enhanced home safety measures and parental education regarding medication and household product storage.
- Identifies specific age groups and times of day for targeted public health interventions.
- Provides baseline data for evaluating the effectiveness of future poisoning prevention programs.
Abstract:
A prospective study, by epidemiological survey, was carried out in the 447 children with acute poisoning attended in our hospital between February 1, 1990 and January 31, 1991. All data was processed to analyze the possible associations that would help to better understand the factors that take part in poisoning. We observed a predominance in male infants, with a greater incidence between two and three years of age, and the accidents occurred almost exclusively at home, mainly in the kitchen or bedroom. The child is often not adequately watched and the toxic elements are usually within easy access. There was neither a seasonal nor daily predominance. We noticed an hourly predominance with most accidents occurring between 12 a.m. and 4 p.m. Drugs are the most common agents, followed by household cleaning products. Morbidity was scarce and there was no mortality.