Accidental fatal burns among the elderly in a metro city of India - A retrospective single-centre study

Abstract: Introduction: In recent years increase in life expectancy and disintegration of joint families is a global phenomenon. These socio-demographic changes lead to an increase in the elderly population, who in spite of their age related declined state of physical and mental abilities are compelled to live by themselves. This makes them vulnerable to accidents, including burns. In this background, a study on “Fatal accidental burns among elderly in a metro city of India” has been planned. This study attempts to elucidate the time, circumstances, extent of burns and period of survival of the victims thereafter. Materials and Methods: This is an observational, descriptive epidemiological study, cross-sectional in design, conducted at an Autopsy Centre of Kolkata, India, for a period of one year. Data was obtained from reports of Post-mortem Examinations and Police Inquest of the deceased of fatal accidental burns among the elderly population; compiled in Microsoft Excel and analyzed by using frequency and percentage. Results: 84% of the study population was females. Incidences of burns occur between 8a.m - 8p.m, in 86% of the reported cases. Burns occurred from “Diya” (pious lamp) or candle during performing “Puja” (ritual of worship among different religions) in 55% and during cooking in 30% of the cases. 16% of the study population died within a day of accident, suffering on an average of 77% of TBSA (Total Body Surface Area) burns. Only 7% of the study population survived more than 30 days suffering an average of 42% TBSA burns. Conclusion: In this study 85% of the deceased sustained burns either during performing “Puja” or during cooking due to exposure to open flame. Containment of the flame during “Puja” and use of flameless heating system during cooking can substantially reduce fatal accidental burns among elderly.