Intentional poisonings in children below 15 years of age in the city of Lodz

Abstract

Data on self poisonings in children < l5 y of age from all over Poland are not available. An analysis of intentional poisonings among juveniles < 15 y of age in the city of Lodz in 1991-1995 was done. Intentional poisonings accounted for over 14% of total poisonings in children < 15 y of age. Self-poisonings in 9-11 and 12-15 y old, accounted for 5.2% and 86.8%, respectively, of the total juvenile intentional poisonings. They were more frequent in girls (80.8%) than boys (19.2%). Drugs were the most common agents (93%), of which 56% were sleep-inducing and psychotropic drugs. The dominating reasons for attempts were family and school problems, and impaired social relations. The high number of these poisonings indicates impaired parent-child relationship and resulting difficulties in social adaptation. The wide use of sleep-inducing and psychotropic drugs by adults makes these medicines more accessible.