Objectives: The aim of our study was to elucidate the current pattern of acute poisoning among children admitted to a regional University Hospital in the prefecture of Evros in Northern Greece. We also compared the obtained findings with those of two previous studies performed in the same region.

Methods: Demographic and clinical data, management, and outcome of children with acute poisoning were recorded in our region, during the past 5-years (2005-2009, period C) and compared to similar studies carried out in the periods 1985-1989 (period A) and 1995-1999 (period B).

Results: Comparison between the three periods showed that in period A the lower incidence of children's acute poisoning (CAP) was observed. Also this revealed a 20%-reduction in the frequency of poisoning over the past 5-years (period C) compared to period B (p= 0.219), a significant increase in tobacco intoxication over the years (in the order AC; p< 0.001 for comparisons of periods A and B, and periods B and C), while poisoning from insecticides-pesticides decreased (p< 0.001). The incidence of poisoning via salicylates significantly reduced from 9.7% in period A to 6.2% in period B, and further to 4.7% in period C (p= 0.016), whereas during the same periods poisoning via paracetamol increased from 2.3% to 5.1% and then to 10.4%, respectively (p< 0.001). A trend toward a higher incidence of suicide attempt via poisoning was found during the three periods (from 3.0% in period A to 4.7% and 6.6%, in periods B and C, respectively; p= 0.049).

Conclusions: The frequency of acute poisoning among children has decreased over the past 5 years. The incidences of poisoning via paracetamol and tobacco, and attempted suicide have increased in recent years. Targeted and continuous educational preventive programs are mandatory.