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Trends in firearm-related injuries in Washington State, 1989-1995
P Cummings1, M LeMier, D B Keck
1Harborview Injury Prevention and Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle, USA. peterc@u.washington.edu
Annals of Emergency Medicine
|July 10, 1998
Summary
Firearm injuries in Washington state saw increased suicides among young people and assaults across all ages, with survival rates remaining unchanged. This study analyzed trends from 1989-1995.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Firearm-related injuries pose a significant public health challenge.
- Understanding incidence, outcomes, and trends is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence and outcomes of firearm-related injuries in Washington State.
- To analyze temporal trends in firearm injury from 1989 to 1995.
Main Methods:
- Data extracted from Washington State death certificates and hospital discharge files (1989-1995).
- Emergency department-only cases estimated using a statewide firearm injury surveillance system.
- Analysis of injury incidence, survival rates, and demographic trends.
Main Results:
- An estimated 9,995 individuals were shot between 1989-1995 (incidence 28.0/100,000 person-years).
- Overall survival was 58%, with lowest survival for suicides (11%) and highest for unintentional shootings (96%).
- Significant increases observed in firearm-related suicides among those under 35 (+31.3%) and assaults across all ages (+53.7%).
Conclusions:
- Firearm-related suicides among younger populations and assaults increased significantly during the study period.
- The overall survival rate for firearm-related injuries remained stable.
- Findings highlight the need for focused prevention strategies addressing specific injury types and demographics.