Abusive head trauma among children in Alaska: a population-based assessment.

Background: Serious physical abuse resulting in a traumatic brain injury (TBI) has been implicated as an underreported cause of infant mortality. Nearly 80% of all abusive head trauma (AHT) occurs among children <2 years of age, with infants experiencing an incidence nearly 8 times that of 2-year olds.

Objective: This study describes the validation of the CDC Pediatric Abusive Head Trauma (PAHT) definitions when applied to a multi-source database at the state level and provides a robust annual incidence estimate of AHT among children <2 years of age in Alaska.

Experience of a controlling or threatening partner among mothers with persistent symptoms of depression.

Objective: We evaluated the prevalence of symptoms of maternal depression (SMD) that continue beyond the postpartum period and the association between persistent SMD and reporting a controlling or threatening partner.

Study Design: We combined data from a survey of mothers 2-6 months after delivery and its 2-year follow-up survey and analyzed the responses of 444 women who responded to both surveys. We focused on exposure to a controlling partner because this was the sole factor that was associated with persistent SMD in preliminary analysis.