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Childhood poisoning: a population study in Trieste, Italy, 1975-1994
A G Marchi1, S Renier, G Messi
1Servizio di Pronto Soccorso, Primo Accoglimento e Centro Anti Veleni IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy.
Journal of Clinical Epidemiology
|September 22, 1998
Summary
Childhood poisoning referrals increased, but hospitalizations decreased. Pharmaceutical poisonings declined, while domestic, carbon monoxide, and alcohol poisonings rose, particularly in teenagers.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Toxicology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Childhood poisoning is a significant public health concern requiring ongoing epidemiological surveillance.
- Understanding trends in poisoning cases is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the epidemiology of childhood poisoning cases referred to the emergency room in Trieste, Italy, between 1975 and 1994.
- To identify trends in poisoning incidence, characteristics, and outcomes over a 20-year period.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 1918 emergency room referrals for childhood poisoning.
- Calculation of incidence rates based on resident population data.
- Description of poisoning occurrence by time trends, demographics, exposure route, symptoms, intent, and substance involved.
- Statistical evaluation using multivariate models and logistic regression.
Main Results:
- Emergency room referral incidence increased significantly, while hospitalization rates decreased twofold.
- Younger children (0-4 years) were less likely to be symptomatic and require hospitalization compared to older children (≥10 years).
- Pharmaceutical poisonings decreased, likely due to child-resistant containers, while domestic poisonings, carbon monoxide, and alcohol poisonings increased, especially in adolescents.
Conclusions:
- Despite increased emergency room referrals for childhood poisoning, a decline in hospitalizations suggests improved case management or less severe poisonings.
- Shifting trends highlight the need for targeted prevention efforts focusing on domestic poisons, carbon monoxide, and alcohol, particularly for adolescents.