AI Article Synopsis
- The study investigates pediatric gunshot wounds (GSW) as a significant public health issue, focusing on the demographics and circumstances surrounding these injuries in a specific county from 2013 to 2019.
- Out of 393 identified GSW cases, a large majority were male and from minority groups, with 92% of injuries due to violence and a notable mortality rate of 12%.
- The research highlights geographic "hot spots" for GSW, particularly in underserved neighborhoods, suggesting that targeted interventions in these areas could help reduce gun violence among children.
Article Abstract
Purpose: Firearm injuries (GSW) are a growing public health concern and leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children, yet predictors of injury remain understudied. This study examines the correlates of pediatric GSW within our county.
Methods: We retrospectively queried an urban Level 1 trauma center registry for pediatric (0-18 years) GSW from September 2013 to January 2019, examining demographic, clinical, and injury information. We used a geographic information system to map GSW rates and perform spatial and spatiotemporal cluster analysis to identify zip code "hot spots."
Results: 393 cases were identified. The cohort was 877% male, 87% African American, 10% Hispanic, and 22% Caucasian/Other. Injuries were 92% violence-related and 4% accidental, with 63% occurring outside school hours. Mortality was 12%, with 53% of deaths occurring in the resuscitation unit. Zip-level GSW rates ranged from 0 to 9 (per 1000 < 18 years) by incident address and 0-6 by home address. Statistically significant hot spots were in predominantly underserved African American and Hispanic neighborhoods.
Conclusions: Geodemographic analysis of pediatric GSW injuries can be utilized to identify at-risk neighborhoods. This methodology is applicable to other metropolitan areas where targeted interventions can reduce the burden of gun violence among children.
Type Of Study: Retrospective study.
Level Of Evidence: Level III.
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Source |
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| http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2020.09.032 | DOI Listing |
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