Boy dies in Kuopio from suspected inhalant abuse

Police suspect that a seventh-grade boy in Kuopio has died as a result of inhalant abuse. Inhalation, or “sniffing,” involves the intentional inhalation of various substances to achieve a state of intoxication. The specific substance the boy allegedly inhaled has not yet been disclosed.

We reached out to Juha T. Korhos, a specialist from the Poison Information Centre, to understand the risks associated with inhalant use. He addressed our questions via email, providing general insights.

Regarding instances when inhalation can lead to death, Korhos noted that there are dozens of substances commonly misused for this purpose, often including aerosol propellants or volatile solvents available at hardware stores. Many of these substances can displace oxygen in the air, potentially leading to brief unconsciousness or, in extreme cases, cardiac arrest due to oxygen deprivation. Certain products have also been directly linked to sudden cardiac failures due to their toxicity, with multiple cases reported worldwide.

When asked which substances pose particular dangers, Korhos refrained from singling any out, stating that all inhalants are harmful to health. Some substances carry immediate severe risks and can lead to permanent organ damage that may not become apparent until later, especially with repeated use.

According to a recent THL statistical report, 9% of 15- to 16-year-olds reported having tried inhalants at least once in their lives as of 2024, up from 4% in 1995. Inhalant issues have become less prominent in recent years, with greater concern now surrounding nitrous oxide use, which has led to lasting nerve damage among young adults.

If someone is suspected of having inhaled a harmful substance, they should be turned onto their side to keep the airway clear and checked for breathing. Emergency services should then be contacted by dialing 112, and further assistance is available from the Poison Information Centre at 0800 147 111.