Characteristics and circumstances of volatile solvent misuse-related death in Australia

The journal “Clinical Toxicology” has recently published an article titled “Characteristics and circumstances of volatile solvent misuse-related death in Australia, 2000 – 2021.” The article uses data from the National Coronial Information System to understand the types of volatile substances involved in fatalities, but also the circumstances around these deaths. There were 164 cases identified, with 79.9% being males. The circumstances of most deaths (61%) were described as “unintentional toxicity” - meaning that the direct effects of the substance caused the death. A further 20% of deaths were related to unintentional asphyxia (for example where a person suffocates on a bag used for inhaling a substance), 12% were related to intentional self-harm, and the final 6.7% were related to a traumatic accident. The most common substance detected as leading to death was butane (40.7%) which is found in light refills, portable camp stoves but also the propellant used in common deodorants. The second most common substance detected was toluene (29.6%) which is found in petrol, spray paints and some glues.  
 
Go to “Characteristics and circumstances of volatile solvent misuse-related death in Australia, 2000 – 2021.”