Rate and Pattern of Death due to Poisoning in Sir Salimullah Medical College during COVID 19 Pandemic

Abstract

Background: The COVID19 pandemic caused global disruptions, significantly impacting people's daily lives, social habits, and overall physical and mental health. These stressful changes are known to influence patterns of self-harmand accidental injury, creating a unique context for studying toxicological fatalities.
Objective: The study aimed to evaluate the patterns and rates of poisoning-related deaths autopsied at a Sir Salimullah Medical College hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh, during the COVID 19 pandemic period.
Materials and Methods: A two-year retrospective study of poisoned deaths was conducted by the Department of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, reviewing postmortem records and police inquest reports from January 2020 to December 2021. The goal was to profile the deaths and compare findings with pre-pandemic studies.
Result: A total of 272 suspected poisoning cases were autopsied. Organophosphorus Compounds (OPC) were the most prevalent agent (59.5%), followed by alcohol/rectified spirit (10%). The majority of victims were men (64.3%), but women represented a significant portion (35.7%). The highest rate of poisoning was found in the 21–30 year age group (31.5%). Students and housewives were the most affected occupational groups. Family discord was the leading motive, accounting for 22.3% of cases.
Conclusion: The COVID19 epidemic altered the pattern of poisoning cases, with the lockdown situation contributing to a rise in suicides. Quick action is imperative from healthcare professionals, legislators, and mental health support providers, especially targeting women and those in vulnerable age groups, to mitigate these risks.

The Journal of Ad-din Women's Medical College; Vol. 13 (2), July 2025; p 20-25