Epidemiology of Fatal Poisoning from Organophosphorus Compounds in Rangpur District, Bangladesh

Abstract

Background: Organophosphorus compounds poisoning is a major public health problem in low- & middle-income countries. The WHO estimates that three million cases of pesticide poisoning occurred world-wide annually with 2,20,000 deaths, the majority international. In Bangladesh OPC is used for suicidal purpose in rural area due to its cheapness, toxicity & availability. Objective: The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of area, incidence of age and sex, marital status of victim in case of death due to organophosphorus poisoning. Methods: It was a retrospective study of all medico-legal autopsies performed between Oct.2005 to Jan. 2007, at mortuary of Rangpur Medical College, based on history and preliminaries of the deceased. Results: Out of total 282 medicolegal autopsies were performed during this study period, 60(21%) were death due to organophosphorus poisoning. Most of the victim were female 31(52%) while male was 29(48%) in number. Prevalence of organophosphorus poisoning was more in Mithapukur area 17(28%) in number and according to age group the maximum incidence of poisoning was observed in 21-30 yrs (38%). Acute poisoning was observed more in married group (80%) than unmarried group (20%). Conclusion: Organophosphorus poisoning is an important health care problem in our country. Improved awareness, restricting availability and taking preventive methods may reduce mortality and morbidity due to organophosphorus poisoning.