Patterns and sociodemographic profile of acute poisoning patients: A study from tertiary care hospital in southern Rajasthan

Background: Poisoning remains a significant yet underrecognized public health problem in developing countries, particularly in rural regions. The pattern and prevalence of poisoning are influenced by various factors, including substance availability, socioeconomic status, occupation, and education. Objective: To analyze the demographic and socioeconomic profile of acute poisoning cases presenting to the District Hospital, Banswara, in southern Rajasthan. Methods: A prospective study was conducted on 100 acute poisoning cases. Data were collected on demographics, type of poisoning agent, occupation, education level, and socioeconomic status using the Modified Kuppuswamy Socioeconomic Scale (2025). Results: Males were more frequently affected than females (male-to-female ratio: 13:7). The highest incidence was observed in the 21–30 year age group, followed by the 14–20 year group. Most cases were from rural areas (96%), with agricultural pesticides being the most common agents. A majority of patients had education up to high school or were illiterate. Laborers constituted the largest occupational group (32%). Most belonged to the upper-lower (78%) and lower-middle (16%) socioeconomic classes. Conclusion: Agricultural pesticides were the most predominant poison in our study across different age groups and various occupations. Most of the patients belonged to the upper-lower class, as per the Modified Kuppuswamy Socioeconomic Scale (2025).