A Survey on Different Methods of Rice Tablet Related Poisoning Control at Sina Hospital of Tabriz between 2013 and 2017

Abstract

Introduction: Aluminum phosphide (AlP) is a pesticide and used to protect stored rice. After exposure to moisture, it releases phosphine gas. Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the methods of control of rice poisoning in Sina hospital in Tabriz from 2013 to 2017. Materials and Methods: Medical records of patients with suicide attempt with ALP referred to Sina Hospital were included in the study. Sample size was 110 including all patients in relation to ALP poisoning during 4 years. A questionnaire containing demographic questions and information on poisoning such as how to access poison, dosage, symptoms of poisoning, etc. was completed. Data were analyzed by SPSS software and chi-square test and regression analysis. Results: from the total sample, 65.2% patients were male. 34.8% are 20 years or less, 37.5% were 21-30 years old, 15.2% was 31-40 years old, 8% was 41-50 years old and 4.5% was over 50 years old. The level of consciousness was high in 59.3% patients. 39.3% were dead and 60.7% discharged. Clinical manifestations were: 76.9% nausea and vomiting, 15.4% pressure drop, 8.8% respiratory failure, 12.1% metabolic acidosis, 1.1% respiratory alkalosis, 13.2% perspiration/ arrhythmia, 4.4% or agitation was 3.3% shock, 2.2% cyanosis, 16.5% loss of consciousness. Conclusion: The highest rate of ALP poisoning was among male with 20- 30 years. The mortality rate of rice pills in the present study was 39.3%. Thereby, most of the victims are those who buy AlP tablets for suicide. So access to those pills should be limited. Thereby, increase the physician's awareness regarding to poisoning and treatment can save poisoning rates. Easy availability of ALP may be useful but leads to an increased risk of poisoning among people with family, social or economic problems because they are aware of the risk of death.