Forensic analysis of adult acute poisoning in Makkah Region: A retrospective study

Abstract

This paper aims to identify and assess acute poisoning cases in Makkah from 2017 to 2019, which proved its effect on the heath of population with regards to factors such as socio-economic elements. Consequently, the research employed a cross-sectional secondary analytical design to analyse data relating to regional hospitals and forensic laboratories and the concerned patients aged 18 and above. The study showed that adults of the age 20–39 years were the most affected, and accidental poisoning was their major problem. The switch from the use of solid substances to liquid substances as agents for exposure pointed to fresh trends in the use of substances, which proposed call for appropriate prevention programmes. Furthermore, comparing different age groups we identify healthcare-seeking behaviour differences, indicating lower perceived threat and the need for targeted interventions. This study establishes that, though improvements can be seen in forensic management of acute poisonings, there is a need for additional advancement especially in toxicological analysis and acute poisoning incidents in all Makkah’s demographics.