Psychiatric Manifestation of Snake Bites in Southern Bangladesh
Keywords:
Psychiatric manifestation, Survivors, Snake bitesAbstract
Background: Snake bites are a significant public health issue, especially in tropical and subtropical areas, affecting 4-18 million people annually and causing up to 120,000 deaths. The burden is mainly in rural communities of South Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Bangladesh faces about 800,000 snake bites yearly, with 52 of the 200 poisonous species. Snake bites can cause severe physical and psychological effects, like PTSD and anxiety. Despite its impact, snakebite remains underreported due to high non-venomous incidents. Efforts aim to halve snakebite-related deaths and disabilities by 2030.
Aim of the study: This study aimed to examine the psychological effects of snakebites in Southern Bangladesh.
Methods: This observational study focused on snakebite incidents in five districts of southern Bangladesh: Khulna, Jashore, Satkhira, Bagerhat, and Gopalganj. The study was conducted from August 2022 to March 2023 and included 50 individuals who survived venomous snakebites, selected through purposive, convenience sampling. Inclusion criteria were any age and gender with venomous bites, while non-venomous cases and fatalities were excluded. Data collection involved face-to-face interviews and questionnaires, analyzed using SPSS version 26.0 for Windows. Demographic details and clinical symptoms were documented, with continuous data presented as mean±SD and categorical data as frequency and percentage.
Results: The study analysed 50 snakebite patients, with 30% aged 16-30 and 28% aged 46-60. The average age was 34.59 years. Men comprised 64% of participants, and 52% had only a primary education. Occupationally, 36% were farmers, and 12% were students. Socioeconomically, 64% were lower class, and 76% were Muslims. A significant 58% sought primary care, often trusting in traditional healers (76%) over medical treatment (12%). Post-bite, 82% avoided hospitals, and 82% reported psychological issues. 34% had moderate depression, 36% had mild anxiety, and 70% had moderate to severe PTSD, with 12% experiencing immune system effects.
Conclusion: The study examines psychiatric issues after snakebites in Southern Bangladesh, where victims often seek traditional healers instead of medical care. Mainly affecting young males in agriculture, 72% experienced anxiety, 58% depression, and 70% PTSD. The study highlights the need for awareness and early psychological intervention for recovery.
Mediscope 2026;13(2): 111-117
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Copyright (c) 2026 Mst Shammy Akhter, Banga Kamal Basu, Mahfuja Khanam, Shaikh Salman Salam, Md Masud Karim, Mst Fatema Khatun, Maskura Benzir, Afroz Zahan, F M Khaliduzzaman
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