Welch’s Analysis of Variance as Applied to Compare Drug Intoxication Infection across Saudi Health Regions (2019–2023)

Abstract

This study compares drug poisoning cases across the 20 health regions in Saudi Arabia for the years 2019 and 2023, using official data from the Ministry of Health. Welch's ANOVA was used to assess differences in poisoning rates. The results indicate significant variation in the distribution of cases, with Riyadh, Jeddah, and Hail, 533,254 and 130 respectively showing significantly higher averages, while areas such as Al-Qunfudhah and Al-Baha recorded the lowest rates 15 and 26. The results highlight spatial and temporal disparities, suggesting that population density, urbanization, and access to healthcare may influence reporting and incidence rates. The study recommends the importance of region-specific public health interventions, intensive awareness campaigns, and targeted regulatory measures to mitigate the risks of drug poisoning nationwide.