The epidemic of penetrating trauma: a national dilemma

Available literature on penetrating trauma in the USA was reviewed to determine the prevalence, etiological factors, and societal cost of penetrating trauma. Penetrating injuries accounted for 39,888 deaths in 1989 and was the eighth leading cause of death. Etiological factors include increasing ownership of firearms, alcohol consumption, recreational drug use and trafficking, occupational risks, and socioeconomic factors. These injuries account for the fourth leading cause of estimated years of potential life lost. Corrective strategies and research are severely limited by the disproportionately low research funding.