Forensic analysis of accidental burn: Study of a catastrophic death in tertiary care Medical College and hospital

Abstract

Accidental burn is an alarming but preventable cause of mortality in Bangladesh. Over the year, thousands of individuals are affected by burn incidents due to many underlying risk factors. Unsafe cooking process, poor electrical wiring, inadequate hospital management and accessibility to proper care, lack of knowledge etc plays a crucial role for burn. Over the recent years, some major burn incidents has made burn a major public health concern in Bangladesh.

This study was conducted to evaluate the demographical profile of the victims, the cause and source of burn, total body surface area in relation with burn, causes of death due to burn and their preventions. Results reveal that females suffer mostly from burn from their kitchen ignited materials or during cooking. On the other hand, males who suffer from burn, are affected mostly from their occupational source. Mortality increases proportionally to the total body surface area involved in burn. Also death rates are high due to inadequate first aid support, delay in hospital admission, infection etc. The study highlights the causes, preventive measures and sort out the importance of strengthening burn management facilities across the country.

J Shaheed Suhrawardy Med Coll 2024; 16(2): 56-62