Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in the United Arab Emirates

Abstract

Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is rare in the Arabian Peninsula and occurs almost exclusively during the winter months. Knowledge and perception of the hazards of carbon monoxide is limited. Migrant workers from warm climates appear particularly at risk. We investigated 46 cases of carbon monoxide poisoning presenting at emergency departments from 2007-2009 of the two main hospitals in Al Ain city, United Arab Emirates. Interviews, hospital records, and administered questionnaires were used to collect the data. Among the 46 cases investigated, 24 (52%) were males. Foreign nationals compromised 80% of the cases and the incidence was 3.1 cases per 100,000 residents per year. Burning charcoal in poorly ventilated residences was the predominant source of the carbon monoxide poisoning. Almost all cases (98%) were admitted during the winter months, most in the early morning hours. Carboxyhaemoglobin (COHb) was significantly increased in cases with loss of consciousness and depressed consciousness. There were no reported fatalities.

Carbon monoxide poisoning in Beirut, Lebanon: Patient′s characteristics and exposure sources

“…This etiology has been previously reported in the literature as the most cause of CO poisoning in Gulf countries and among immigrants mainly Asians outside their country of origin. [ 9 10 11 12 13 14 ] Our study however highlights further that burning charcoal is the most common cause of unintentional CO poisoning in young females in our setting. Even though the education level was not available for patients included in our study, the prevalence of this etiology in a specific group underlines the need for preventive measures in our society and possibly other developing countries in terms of public education and increasing awareness regarding sources of CO emission and the dangers of burning charcoal indoors.…”

“…In our study, similar to previously published literature, headache was the most common presenting symptom. [ 9 15 ] None of the patients in our study presented with seizure, flu-like, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbation symptoms which are commonly reported as presenting symptoms of CO poisoning. [ 15 ] This suggests that CO poisoning might be underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed as another illness in patients presenting to our ED.…”

“…This is consistent with previous reports regarding disposition of patients with CO poisoning treated in the ED with most patients being discharged home. [ 9 ]…”