A Profile Study of Sudden Natural Death Cases in Vadodara Region of Central Gujarat

Abstract

Sudden death is said to be sudden or unexpected when the victim not known to have been suffering from

any dangerous disease, injury or poisoning is found dead or dies within 24 hours after the onset of terminal

illness (WHO). Incidences of sudden natural deaths are increasing now a days and specifically in healthy

young individuals can arise suspicion of foul play. Our study may help to provide epidemiological data

regarding the sudden death that can be used to control disease outbreaks, identifying emerging causes or

changes in disease pattern so that appropriate action can be taken to reduce the morbidity and mortality. The

present study undertaken to find the socio-demographic profile (age, sex and religion etc.) of the deceased

of sudden death. This prospective study had been conducted on autopsy cases brought to tertiary health

center of Vadodara, Central Gujarat for the period of one year. During study period total 2240 autopsies were

conducted, of which 224 cases (10%) were sudden deaths. Most of the cases were from the 41 - 50 years

age group. Of the 224 cases, 149 were due to diseases of cardiovascular system and 63 due to diseases of

respiratory system. We observed that sudden death cases were higher in young age group and cardiovascular

system was most commonly involved.