An Analysis and Profile of Paraquat Poisoning in and Around Khammam, Telangana

Abstract

Morbidity and mortality of acute poisoning is a major serious health issue in the world. Paraquat is seriously known to be responsible for acute poisoning. The study aims to present the various aspects, including the epidemiological profile, clinical presentation, analysis of poisoning, outcome and cause of death. This is hospital based, prospective study of all the confirmed cases of paraquat poisoning. The paraquat poisoning patients were presented to the Emergency Department, Mamata General Hospital, attached to Medical College, Khammam, a one year study period from January 2022 to December 2022 was studied. A total of 16 paraquat poisoning cases were admitted during the study period. Complete data were collected and analysed from patients,attendants and hospital records. A total of 102 poisoning cases were admitted, out of which paraquat poisoning cases, 16 men were most involved. In this study, it was shown that most cases were reported from urban, married people. Paraquat is widely marketed and easily available. The lack of availability of a specific antidote increases the paraquat fatality. The most common cause of death is respiratory failure. Paraquat causes renal failure by causing hypovolemia, circulatory failure, septicemia, and direct toxicity leading to multiorgan failure. The present study determines the most vulnerable age group, 31–40 years, males, married people from rural populations belonging to low socioeconomic strata. Most of people are employed in the agriculture sector. Most of the victims committed suicide due to financial problems.