Characterization of Exogenous Poisonings in Children and Adolescents between 2010 and 2020 in Brazil

Abstract

Objectives: To analyze the epidemiological profile of exogenous poisonings in children and adolescents in Brazil between 2010 and 2020. Methodology: Cross-sectional, descriptive, retrospective study based on data from SINANNET/DATASUS. The variables of interest were: toxic agent, sex, race/ethnicity, age group, region of residence, and evolution within the age group of 0 to 14 years. The data were tabulated, and absolute and relative frequencies were calculated. Results: During the period, the total number of poisoning cases was 238,880. The year with the highest incidence rate was 2019 (32,605 cases), and the region with the highest number of cases was Southeast (100,024 cases). Regarding age group, the highest frequency was among those aged 1 to 4 years (51.8%). There was a predominance of females (52.49%) and mixed-race individuals (36.9%). As for toxic agents, medications were the most frequent (43.4%). Most cases evolved with recovery without sequelae (80.6%). Concerning the mortality rate, there were 543 cases, with a predominance in the 10 to 14-year age group (37.8%) and the Northeast region (36.3%). Discussion: Exogenous poisonings in children and adolescents were responsible for at least 543 deaths between 2010 and 2020. Studying this issue in the mentioned age group is of utmost importance for public health management in Brazil. The findings underscore the need for raising awareness among parents and guardians, as well as educating minors about the risks associated with exposure to toxic substances (medications, alcohol, illicit drugs, among others) and their potential health hazards.