Year: 1996 Source: Human and Experimental Toxicology, v.15, no.6, (June 1996), p.466-470 SIEC No: 20020061

A 12-week prospective survey of all patients of any age with confirmed or suspected poisoning presenting to 6 accident & emergency departments in the north-east of England were performed. 954 episodes of poisoning involving 852 patients were recorded representing approximately 1.2% of all accident & emergency presentations. 6% of patients presented more than once with poisoning during the study period & 37% had a past history of deliberate self-harm. The increasing frequency of self-poisoning in young men & the increasing use of paracetamol are particular causes for concern. (27 refs.)