AN AUTOPSY BASED STUDY OF SOCIO-DEMOGRAPHIC PATTERNS IN FATAL BURN INJURIES: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.

Avinav  Kumar; Sawan  Mundri; Anand  Kumar; Chandra Shekhar  Prasad

doi:10.51168/sjhrafrica.v5i6.1208

Authors

Avinav Kumar Senior Resident, Department of FMT, SNMMC, Dhanbad, Jharkhand, India
Sawan Mundri Assistant Professor, Department of FMT, RIMS, Ranchi, Jharkhand, India
Anand Kumar Senior Resident, Department of FMT, RIMS, Ranchi, Jharkhand, India
Chandra Shekhar Prasad Professor, Department of FMT, LCMCH, Bishrampur, Jharkhand, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v5i6.1208

Keywords:

Fatal Burn Injuries, Demographic Variables, Incident Characteristics, Total Body Surface Area, Prevention Strategies

Abstract

Background

On a global scale, fatal burn injuries result in considerable morbidity and mortality. To enhance prevention strategies and outcomes, it is imperative to comprehend the demographics of burn-related fatalities, incident particulars, and relevant contributing factors. The study analyzed various demographic variables such as age, sex, occupation, socioeconomic status, and fire source that are associated with fatal burn injuries, leveraging recent investigations and case analyses.

Methods

During the cross-sectional examination, an analysis was conducted on 334 cases of lethal burn injuries. Information concerning demographic variables, incident characteristics, burn injury severity, and time elapsed until initial medical care was received, was gathered through questionnaires and post-mortem examinations.

Results: The study revealed a predominance of females (76.1%) among burn injury victims, with the highest incidence observed in the age group of 21-40 years (47.9%). Cooking-related activities were the primary cause of burn injuries (55.7%), with a significant proportion occurring at home (78.4%). Over half of the victims experienced severe burns covering more than 40% of their total body surface area (TBSA).

Conclusion

Demographic, environmental, and behavioral factors affect Indian fatal burn injuries. Prevention needs household safety, fire prevention, and public knowledge. Improved healthcare infrastructure, particularly burn care facilities and prompt interventions, improves outcomes. To reduce fatal burn injuries, preventive, immediate medical care, rehabilitation, and social support are needed.

Recommendations

The suggestions encompass the enactment of extensive fire safety educational initiatives, the formation of dedicated burn treatment facilities, and the inclusion of psychological assistance and recovery services within the continuum of care.