Occupational Risk, Temporal Trends and Clinical Outcomes in Snakebite Envenomation
Abstract
Background: Snakebite envenomation remains a significant but neglected tropical disease, disproportionately affecting rural and agrarian populations in low- and middle-income countries. Despite global reductions in mortality, India continues to contribute substantially to the worldwide burden. Objectives: To assess the occupational risk, temporal trends, clinical features, and outcomes of snakebite envenomation in a rural hospital setting. Methods: This hospital-based observational study was conducted over 12 months at a tertiary care centre serving predominantly agrarian communities. A total of 100 consecutive patients with confirmed or suspected snakebite presenting within 24 hours of the incident were included. Data were collected on demographic factors, bite characteristics, clinical features, management, and outcomes. Results: Farmers accounted for the majority of victims (81%), reflecting occupational vulnerability. Poisonous bites were more common among males (41 cases), while females more often sustained non-poisonous bites. Temporal analysis revealed peak incidence during evening hours (4–8 pm). The lower extremities were the most frequent bite sites (89% of cases). Vasculotoxic (28 cases) and neurotoxic (14 cases) envenomations were associated with systemic complications including bleeding, cellulitis, gangrene, and respiratory compromise. Anti-snake venom was administered in 28 cases, with supportive interventions such as diuretics, hemodialysis, and blood transfusion in selected patients. Mortality occurred in three vasculotoxic and two neurotoxic cases, whereas no deaths were observed in local toxicity cases. Conclusion: Snakebite envenomation in rural regions is primarily an occupational hazard for farmers, with evening outdoor activity posing the greatest risk. Lower limb involvement predominates, and systemic envenomation contributes significantly to morbidity and mortality. Timely administration of anti-snake venom and reducing preventable deaths and complications.Keywords:
Snakebite envenomation, Temporal trends, Morbidity and mortalityReferences
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