Childhood non-drug poisoning in Nnewi, Nigeria

Trop Doct. 2000 Oct;30(4):209-11. doi: 10.1177/004947550003000409.

Abstract

While poisonings from developed nations have been extensively described there is a dearth of information on poisoning in societies which have different patterns of daily life, customs, products and beliefs. This study surveys childhood non-drug poisoning, the circumstances of exposure, prevalence demographics and products as well as therapy. The commonest poisoning is kerosene (paraffin), incidence was 2/1000 and the age at highest risk is 12-24 months. Often cases were inappropriately managed at home before arriving at the hospital.

MeSH terms

  • Age Distribution
  • Child
  • Child Welfare / statistics & numerical data*
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Infant
  • Kerosene / poisoning
  • Male
  • Nigeria / epidemiology
  • Poisoning / epidemiology*
  • Poisoning / prevention & control*

Substances

  • Kerosene