Drug and Poison Information Center / DPIC

Poisoning Statistics

General Statistics | Where do Poisonings Occur? | When do Poisonings Occur? |

To increase public awareness and decrease the number of poisoning occurrences in children, the Cincinnati Drug and Poison Information Center (DPIC) offers the poison facts, statistics and suggestions. For more information about poisonings in the home, please see our new Safety House.

General Poisoning Statistics

  • Seventy-nine percent of all poison control center cases involve children -- 64 percent occur in children under age 5.
  • An estimated one in five children will be exposed to a potential poison before age 5.
  • Nationally, during the year 2000, 1.2 million children under age 5 were exposed to potentially poisonous substances.
  • An estimated 70 percent of accidental poisonings are preventable.
  • A partial list of products that can be dangerous includes: acetaminophen, antifreeze, carbon monoxide, berries, mushrooms, camphor, fuel, insecticides, iron preparations, pool chemicals, rat poisons, rubbing alcohol.

Where in the Home Do Poisonings Generally Occur?

Generally, poisonings in the home breakdown as follows:

  • Kitchen -- 41 percent.
  • Bathroom -- 21 percent.
  • Bedroom -- 12 percent.
  • All Other Places -- 26 percent.

When Do Poisonings Occur?

Poisonings occur . . .

  • When there are changes in the daily routine such as holidays, illnesses, moving, vacations, stressful times and celebrations.
  • When a product is being used.
  • When products are carelessly or improperly stored.
  • When adults fail to follow package directions for products such as herbicides, insecticides, fertilizers and medications.
  • When visiting a grandparent or friend.
  • When children are hungry or thirsty.
  • When teens or adults become angry or depressed.
  • When someone becomes confused and disoriented.